Radical Hysterectomy - Experiences?

[Matcha95]

I’ve got an extremely rare health condition and part of the treatment is most likely going to be a radical hysterectomy (all of it out including the top part of the vagina) plus possibly some extra bits. I gather that this is a very different experience from having a more minor hysterectomy where only the womb or ovaries are removed. I’m early 40s so would go into surgical menopause.

So I’m wondering if anybody who has had a radical hysterectomy could tell me about their experience? Both about recovery time, HRT and impact on sex life if you feel comfortable sharing.

I’m trying to be as prepared as possible as at the moment my doctor doesn’t even know who would have the skill to perform my surgery so I’m feeling rather helpless.

I had a radical hysterectomy aged 42 for a Borderline Ovarian Tumour. I had everything removed including omentum and some lymph nodes. I was off work for 3 months (office based and part time) but I’d say full recovery took longer. It’s important to remember it’s major surgery. I have a scar going from just under my ribs to my pubic bone which I call my lifeline. I’d say just listen to your body and take all offers of help.
I couldn’t take HRT. As for impact on sex life it made no difference, though I took things gently at first, but once both myself and my husband got over the anxiety that it may hurt normal service resumed.

Thank you so much for responding. I hope you’ve been fine since.

I’m in a very physical job with 13 hour shifts non stop on my feet so I suspect recovery would be longer than for a sit down job.

I have thank you. I hope all goes well for you