Terrified of post op recovery

[Hannah27]

I had a lap in 2018 and it took months to recover. My mental health really took a bashing too. I'm due my 2nd lap on 15th November, I have 2 children now so recovery has a whole new set of challenges. I know it's different for everyone, but 2-4weeks was nonsense advice last time. Im so so scared. Just looking for some reassurance.

[Bakewey]

Hannah

Do you mind sharing why you need a lap? Is it diagnostic only or will it be removal of endo?

The reason why would shape my reply.

Best wishes 🍀

[Hannah27 in reply to Bakewey]

Hello,I've already been diagnosed. This is my 2nd surgery and will be to remove the endo that's grown since my last op xx

[Cinnamonswirl]

Hi lovely, I can share my request experience after a laparoscopy for endo excision plus cyst and fibroid removal five weeks ago. No endo found on bowels but lots around uterus/bladder/pod.

This was my first laparoscopy and I was very worried and nervous before hand, particularly about mental health during recovery. I have problems with anxiety and one of the ways I deal with that is to make sure I get out for a two mile walk every day, plus other active stuff like hiking and recently strength training.

I'm happy to say that, despite not being able to do my usual activities, the mental side of recovery has been good. I've been lucky to be able to rest up and had a TV series lined up to rewatch, which took my mind off things when I started to worry about recovery symptoms.

Physically, I had some bowel symptoms which were put down to a gastro bug by a GP (I'm still not sure it wasn't some kind of reaction to the disturbance of surgery). And I'm definitely still feeling like I'm recovering: tiredness plus some deep pulling pains which do seem to be easing. I had my first post laparoscopy period last week and although it wasn't as heavy as they sometimes are (I took tranexamic acid) I still felt incredibly washed out and exhausted. That got a bit better as the period got lighter. I'm now back to walking most days although still a little slower.

All this is just to say that although I have had some concerns, the recovery has been not too bad and definitely not as bad as I had feared. I really wish you the best of luck with your op and a smooth recovery experience.

[Bakewey]

Hannah

Since you are getting some removal via the surgery, I’d say go for it- the relief you will get from the removal of the endo and the long term positive effects it will have on your wellbeing will be worth it.

I’ve recently had my 3rd surgery and each time you have one you get to be a little bit more clued up, e.g you understand the importance of mints to ease gas pain and a child’s stall to support yourself when going to the toilet etc…

Make sure you ask for details on a recovery plan before going under so you know what to expect.

And remember to post here when you need to let off stress: the community will be here for you.

Good luck 🍀

[Hannah27 in reply to Bakewey]

I'm definitely going ahead with surgery. Already have peppermint and stool ready. I have pre op assessment this Friday so will ask there.