Salimah Abdul, now 37, endured several traumatic surgeries by age 32 — removing cysts, fibroids, endometriosis. With each year, the complications — psychological and physical — became devastating, leaving her bedridden for days. At 35, a full hysterectomy was needed, ending her dreams of childbirth. Two years later, Salimah focuses on prayer, family and positive thinking to start over as an entrepreneur, actress — and as a confident Muslim woman.
Did the doctors prepare you for going zero to sixty with menopause — having a full hysterectomy so young?
They did not. They were focused and in a hurry to get me out of pain — I did not know what I was in for. I wish I had been psychologically prepared. Honestly, it’s been rough.
What would have been helpful to know?
They talked about hot flashes, and that sex may be painful. But there were no warnings about the sadness and deep depression that would set in.
What was it like pre-hysterectomy?
Ever since I got my period, I’ve dealt with pain. After developing endometriosis, I suffered terribly — planning my life around my period. In bed all day — crying. And sadness is not my nature.
And post?
I had three surgeries: endometriosis, fibroid removal — and then the final hysterectomy, where my uterus and cervix were removed. It was traumatizing — I felt like half a woman. A deep loss. Now I’ve made peace with it — two years later.
Who could you rely on during this?
My mother — fortunately, she has always been very open-minded and was there for me through this – along with my two sisters.
What about therapy?
Oh yes. My therapist helped me visualize healing. I was feeling pretty empty, my womb — completely not there. She said “You have to create a bright light to heal.” That helped me a lot.
What about your faith?
I am a practicing Muslim and my faith got me through this. But trust me, it was not overnight. I know God is with me. But at first it didn’t help. I felt unattractive. The physical pain was gone but — this mental part…
What are your best coping skills now?
A lot of prayer. Meditation, family. Though I like the idea of sharing with a group of women who are going through something similar, it needs to be very intimate. And I am working on being a good person. You may think this has nothing to do with healing — but it does.
What would you like to say to other women going through this?
It gets better. Whatever your faith is. Trust in it. Surround yourself with positive, like-minded people. And do a vision board!
A “vision board” – what’s on your vision board?
Well, after all this, I had to turn around my goals. My vision board now is about wellness, my acting, saving money, my entrepreneurship. Embracing the upside of menopause – no more pain and being ruled by endometriosis… Immersing myself in positive environments and self-talk. I thrive off of these things. They’ve definitely gotten me through. But who knows what the next six months or year might bring…marriage, intimacy, adopting kids… That’s where I am right now.
