Preparing for hysterectomy

[NatAlex29]

Morning all,

I’m just shy of two weeks away from surgery.

I was sent to think about ovary removal, and I’ve planned to go ahead with this also.

Just wondering if anyone has any advice or preparing and recover? Useful things to pack/purchase?

thanks in advance

[Pelvic_pain]

I went into hospital with nighties over pyjamas, knickers I can wear very low so nowhere near any cuts, a few toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, lip balm, brush, hair ties, etc), flannels, slippers & a large pillow to lay across my tummy under the seatbelt when returning home.

With regards to recovery, listen to your body, don't overdo anything & just take 1 day at a time. Recovery is not always better day after day so don't worry if you feel worse than the day before, but if at all concerned about anything, then seek advice/help. If possible, ensure someone is available to help you & look after you as best as possible after discharge. Many people pre cook/freeze food/meals & ensure you can reach all you need easily even if it means rearranging things for a while.

Hope this helps & good luck

[NatAlex29 in reply to Pelvic_pain]

Thank you so much.

Think I best start preparing now!

[Clarabellapp]

Hi I had hysterectomy with ovaries removed 12 weeks ago. I would say organise things so you don’t have to do anything at all for at least 3 weeks. We made a list of all household chores I usually do and assigned them to other family members. Batch cooking and stocking up the freezer is a really good idea.

I bought nighties a size too big for hospital. I didn’t want pj’s or anything with a waist band, it was too uncomfortable. Also, if you have a device you can download a film/tv programmes on. The wait to go down to theatre was really nerve racking for me, so the distraction of lighthearted mindless viewing was a really good distraction.

Get some peppermint tea in. It really helps with the discomfort from bloating and gas which you can get in your stomach and back. And hot water bottles. I also had loads of extra pillows in bed. I couldn’t lie on my side for first 3 weeks, so made myself a kind of nest with pillows to get comfy.

Hope it all goes well. The actual surgery was infinitely less painful than I imagined. Just really take your time with recovery.

[NatAlex29 in reply to Clarabellapp]

Thank you!

I’m not normally a good patient but I will definitely be taking it easy. I’ve arranged for my Mum to come down and stay with us to help out with house and littles ones.

Will add extra pillows to my list thank you! I drink peppermint tea already due to symptoms but will stock up.

Thank you so much for sharing - it’s put my mind at ease (find the waiting more nerve wreaking than the event itself)

[Bakewey]

also, if you haven’t already got one, get a baby step that toddlers use to wash their hands. I use it when going to the toilet (raise legs and lean forward) and when I need to open high cupboards/windows.

A range of period towels are also a necessity. As are wet wipes. I also craved fresh orange juice…dry shampoo is a life saver. Night mask for when on the ward and earplugs/ headphones.

Good luck with everything 🍀