Pre-op questions

[constantsarechanging]

Hi there, 20+ years into the endometriosis journey and several laparoscopic surgeries and excisions later. After 2 years on the waiting list I'm due to have an everything out hysterectomy next week.

Preparing a list of questions to ask are pre-op in an effort to calm my nerves, so wondered if anyone here might have suggestions of things they wish they'd known or asked before hand?

I need to know about a plan for hrt, and ask for more information regarding recovery, but other than that I'm not sure how much is just wait an see...

Appreciate any thoughts, thanks.

[Sunset-lady]

I'm in the same situation as you - 40 years of endometriosis and now having a hysterectomy. Where are you having it done? I'm nervous due to the complications endo brings. My questions were around uretha stents, stoma bags, ferretin levels, other surgeons on standby, how long is the op, bowel prep, fasting etc xxx message me if you want anything as I'm happy to help x

[constantsarechanging in reply to Sunset-lady]

Hi, thank you for your reply.

I am in the West of Scotland and in the care of the specialist centre there.

Sorry to hear you're feeling nervous of complications, I hope your team offer you reassurances and that you feel confident going forward.

I think I've been so focused on the after (menopause/bladder prolapse risk) that I hadn't allowed myself much time to consider the possibility that the surgery may need to adapt or include other disciplines if things are more severe than expected (particularly as mri was nearly 2 years ago). I'll definitely add these to my questions.

I was advised that the nurses will check bloods at pre-op as I've been managing deficiencies and they're not keen to operate when iron is low, may be worth taking a supplement if you're feeling worried.

Take care

[Sunset-lady in reply to constantsarechanging]

Yes my ferritin is only 7. My consultant has asked me to take iron

[Crazy4cats]

I am post hysterectomy, and I asked the same as you.What type of procedure they will do?

HRT was discussed, this was started as soon as I got home.

.They explained they now use a florescent liquid to highlight where your "water pipes" are, so they don't get damaged during the op.

If they're good, they'll set the plan out with you.

With worry of prolapse. Work on your pelvic floor pre op and then as soon as you can post op.

There are some YouTube videos. I also use an ap called "Kegel" it's free.

My specialist was very thorough, they should put you at ease. Even before I went to theatre, they came round and went through it all again, asking if I had more questions.

Good luck with it all.

[constantsarechanging in reply to Crazy4cats]

That's really helpful, thank you