Recovery time advice

[Joseyjo]

I’m reading lots of different things on the internet about how long it takes to recover.

I’m due to have a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. I work from home at my desk on a computer & have 2 children under 12. How long in peoples experience should I tell my employers I’ll be off work after coming out of hospital.

Many thanks for any replies

[Keayma]

Hi , I had the same operation and had 11 weeks of work. You will need it. Everyone is different but the first few weeks you'll be unable to do anything for yourself.

Walking will be an effort. You 'll need help to get up from a chair, turn in bed, having a wash.

Make sure you don't lift anything or any type of housework before your ready. After 6 weeks I thought I was ok and was laid up in bed for 2 days after mowing a small lawn. Most importantly take it easy.

[RachaelE]

Absolutely agree with Keayma. I had 11 weeks off and needed it. Only you will know when you’re ready, but be very careful not to overdo it in the first few weeks. Build up your activity slowly, short walks to start with but definitely no lifting. Good luck. Hope it goes well and don’t forget to ask about HRT as you’ll be thrown into menopause. Xx

[StIvesmaid]

I had the same op (TAH & BSO) in February. I was signed off work for 6 weeks at the time of the op and saw the consultant after 6 weeks. I went back to work then - I have a part time job that involves desk work and a bit of walking around - and for the first week I couldn’t get through a whole day, I was just so tired! You should be prepared for fatigue, I didn’t believe how tired I would feel until it happened. Also absolutely no lifting for the first 6 weeks. You’re told nothing heavier than a kettle with a cup of water in it. For the first few days lifting a cup felt like a major achievement! So your employer should expect you to be off work for at least 6 weeks and possibly a few more weeks after that, maybe on reduced hours when you do return to work until your energy levels get back towards normal. It has taken me a long time to get my stamina and strength back, I think I am maybe 90% there. I haven’t had to cope with sudden menopause either as I am 62. Don’t go kidding yourself that you can go back at 6 weeks and perform at 100%, you’ll be too tired. You don’t mention whether you have anyone at home to help you, you really will need support for quite a while when you get home as you will need help with basic tasks at first, and of course help with your children. Just reread this and it sounds horrific! Best advice based on my own experience, get as much help as you can, follow the advice you are given, rest whenever you feel tired and don’t try to rush your recovery. Oh and drink plenty of peppermint tea!