In 2009, my insurance forced me to change doctors, including OB/GYN care and I was very upset. My PCP had been my OB/GYN and I was very satisfied with that. When I was referred to Dr. Marshall in 2009 by my new PCP, I wasn't please about having to change. We talked about it and she fully understood, but welcomed me into her practice.
At my first visit, I found her to be very upfront and straight-forward in our communication, something I put a high premium on. She also showed me that I had fibroid tumors, something I had not been diagnosed with before. In the summer of 2010, I returned for my annual exam and with ultrasound, Dr. Marshall was able to determine that more fibroid tumors had developed and the initial tumor had increased in size dramatically.
At 43 years old and childless by choice, I was hoping she would tell me I was a candidate for hysterectomy surgery. When we looked at my condition, Dr. Marshall said it was an option, but wanted me to be aware of other courses of treatment. She then carefully reviewed ALL options with me and suggested I take a little time to think about it. It was nice to know she isn't "surgery happy" and quick to put patients in that position. After discussing it with my husband, I opted for a vaginal hysterectomy, including the removal of the cervix, leaving the ovaries intact to minimize my need for hormone replacement therapy.
I've just had my six-week post-op check up after having daVinci robotic surgery done by Dr. Marshall. I can not thank her enough for her excellent care! My surgery was a few hours at Scripps LaJolla hospital and, as expected, I spent one night in the hospital and was home the following evening. Dr. Marshall managed my expectations perfectly and I've been healing just as I thought I would. My surface incisions are fully healed and I have just a few very small scars, as opposed to the giant abdominal scar I remember my mother having years ago after her hysterectomy. My pain was well managed also. In the follow up appointments, she has taken the time and care to be sure I'm not only physically well, but emotionally well in the aftermath of the procedure.
I went into my surgery with a great deal of confidence in Dr. Marshall and was not disappointed. I've found her to be very smart and a very capable surgeon, in addition to the normal OB/GYN care she's given me. I already feel better and after always worrying that I would accidentally get pregnant, I have a new sense of emotional relief.
In addition, while all my medical challenges were happening I had to switch insurance AGAIN and her assistant Cinnamon patiently waded through all the bureaucracy to be sure I had no lapses in care.
I strongly recommend Dr. Marshall, and honestly, if you're looking at possible hysterectomy surgery, see if daVinci surgery is an option. It makes it a much more bearable experience. read more