Hysterectomy support thread

[lasttimeround]

I don't think there is one about. Happy to be directed to a pre-existing thread.
Basically I'm now booked in for a hysterectomy in May. I'm 42. It's going to be partial but abdominal with a vertical incision. So a pretty big operation but hopefully no menopause and I keep my ovaries. It's to deal with my fibroids snd has been a long time coming. Obviously I would have liked to avoid this but I'm now hopeful that my health will be better after. I'm feeling very tired and sore and think having a uterus the size of a 3-4 month pregnancy can't be helping.
I want to try to get into better shape before the surgery.
Anyone else around?

I had an abdominal hysterectomy about 4 years ago, also for large fibroids, one ovary left. Best thing ever, no more painful, flooding periods, yes, recovery takes a while but absolutely no regrets. Just bear in mind that ovaries left behind usually fail a bit quicker than they would normally

When I was told I needed to have it done, the only thing I felt was relief

Thanks Costa. That's cheering. I'm also very fed up. The bleeding etc got under control a while ago with a mirena but my middle is so large.
How did your recovery go?

My op was mid November and I was out for short walks after about 4 weeks, however it generally takes at least 3 months to be anywhere near normal - everyone I know who has had the same op, says the same thing, so take it very easy to start with and build up very gradually

Hi! I had partial hysterectomy in summer 2015 (horizontal incision) also for a fibroid and anemia inducing periods that basically never stopped and caused torrential flooding. I was very lucky with very little pain afterwards, out of hospital in 2 days. I actually look back on that time with great fondness. I was very well cared for in hospital. But please make sure you take instructions about not over doing it seriously and for the time advised. I was kind to myself for 6 weeks, building up gentle walks over that time, no driving. Try to make sure you have as much support as possible. I was told don't lift a full kettle and thought surely not? But I did feel it when I did once which made me more sensible.

Anyway, it's great having had it done - like different life, no more restrictions, worries and feeling terrible once a month. Although it is odd not knowing where I am in my cycle and if I'm through the menopause (I'm 48). Good luck!

Hi Lasttime. I had an abdominal hysterectomy in November to deal with one mahoosive fibroid and a smaller spawn. Horizontal incision which is easier than vertical I think.

First 48 hours were horrific, won't lie about that. Mainly because I reacted very badly to the GA and spend 2 days throwing up. Morphine makes me sick too. Fun times. There are lots of other pain relief options though and the staff won't leave you in pain. I was up and about after about 18 hours having a shower and was encouraged to move around as much as I could.

Recovery has been OK - the best advice is to listen to your body. You will know if you're overdoing it. After a few days I was making cups of tea, after a couple of weeks some light cooking. Heavy lifting is totally forbidden though for 3 months. Walking is great. High-impact stuff not so much. I saw a specialist women's health physio who gave me lots of exercises to do.

OK that sounds very serious. We have a disabled child. Lots of very physical lifting restraining needed which is why I've put this off as long as I feel I can but I think I just can't avoid this.
I don't know how we will manage with me out of action for ages

Ah that somewhat changes the complexion of things. Can you contact your gp to see if you can get any help (wishful thinking maybe) The thing is if you compromise your recovery, you could end up with serious internal damage, that might require further surgery and more rest time. I think you need to do as much brainstorming as possible to get help. If you have family and friends around don't be ashamed to ask for help. You need a timetable to help you get through. Heavy lifting will also make the recovery time longer. I'd definitely be contacting my gp and gynae team. Sorry this is such a complicated situation for you.

I was told no lifting anything heavier than a kettle for at least 6 weeks. My kids are older and don't need liefitng, but there is no way I would have managed lifting them in and out of baths or bed. You should have a pre-op appointment about a week before you go in - ask LOTS of questions about what you will and won't be able to do.

Yes we are going to have to put a plan in place. My mil will come over to help out. My mum passes away a long time ago. I will ask for an emergency social care package snd get as much help from friends as I can. But it's daunting.

Hi op.

I am on awaiting list for horizontal stomach hysterectomy for fibroids. I also have endometriosis and this has made things very complicated causing an ovarian cyst. I am considering removal of the cyst and hopefully leaving at least one ovary.
I am in Ireland so I will be in for six nights €600 🙄. My gynae said no driving for 6 weeks (not covered by insurance). Up to 8-12 weeks recovery.
They also said that I may go into early menopause anyway with the ovary.