What help did you need after a hysterectomy?

[oohlalabonbons]

My DM is to have a vaginal hysterectomy soon - I work part time and have a toddler, but obviously will be there to support.

So...what did you find helpful, and for how long?

TIA x

I'm due one and the think I'm most concerned about is not being able to drive, so making sure she has enough shopping in would be one. Maybe freezing some dinners or getting her easy to make stuff for the first week. Is she on her own?

Oh and hoovering, you're not allowed to do that either

I was in hospital for 3 days after an abdominal hysterectomy at 35.

Once home I could go up and down stairs without any pain but I decided to stay in my room most of the time and just rest. Very hard for me as I'm pretty hyper but I knew I had to suck it up and recover properly.

I was able to prepare my own light snacks and self-care (hate that phrase) straight away but I didn't go out of the house for 2 weeks. But I didn't need any pain relief after day 4 as I didn't over do it. I didn't change a nappy for 6 weeks though .

You could get loads of food in the freezer for your mum, grab her some newspapers and magazines, chuck loads in the washing machine etc.

I haven't had hysterectomy but have just had a pelvic floor repair which in recovery terms prob about the same. I found I was very tired rather that being in pain ...... I was sometimes tempted to do too much as a result and paid the price some days.

If DM lives on her own then I think that getting shopping in will prob be the best thing as she wont be able to drive for a few weeks ( I just drove for a short journey today 23 days post op). Also maybe preparing some meals for freezer if want other than shop microwave ones.

Agree, a hoover round every so often as mum not allowed hoovering till after 6 week check ! She might appreciate a little bit laundry being done.

after a week she will prob manage light dusting and if she sits down maybe iron a few small things.

Great you are around for support ...........and your presence will be just as appreciated if she cant get out an about for a bit if she usually does .

Thanks for the suggestions - she's not on her own but DF works away and doesn't know until the week before when or how long!

Have set up Tesco's online for her, if I can't get there the Tesco man will bring it into the kitchen (not put it away, so only light stuff)!

I had an emcs so am thinking it will be similar? Maybe a bit worse, but being able to sleep with no newborn around will surely help!