having my op next Wednesday and need any advice

[polarbea]

Hi all,

well after suffering for a year with a large fibroid and having to self catheter daily, Im finally having my op next Wednesday for a full hysterectomy and just had my physio consultation over the phone, she was very helpful. But I m left feeling very scared as I think mentally I have been saying that I will be grand after a couple of days. the practical things not being able to wash my hair without support is something that I just didn't take into account. Can anyone give me advice I what to bring, what they were or were not able to do. some people were referring it to like having a C section which I am a bit sick of as this is bigger op than that, also any advice in how you prepared your family for this op.

Thank you for your support I am apologies now if I come on here after the op crying xxx.

Em

[LouiseD1]

Hi polarbea, you are so right that it is a major op and you do need to be prepared for it to take time to recover. Lots of advice says six weeks, but in my opinion that it is a gross understatement and it takes a lot longer than that. It is so different to a c section - you are having a major organ of the body totally removed. But be positive and, most importantly, be kind to yourself and it will be fine.

Make sure you’ve got loose clothing sorted, you will not want anything around your tummy for ages, have a look into what you might need to help with wind pain (can be bad for first couple of days after the op) and to help ease things along until your bowels settle down ( l learnt to love prunes!).

I had a very large fibroid too and it takes a while for bowels and bladder to find their rightful place again in the new space so it can all feel a bit weird (like things are moving inside when you get up and down - freaky sounding I know but it does settle!)

You will not be able to bend down to pick things up so make sure things are at a reachable height or that you have people to fetch and carry for first few weeks.

The most important thing is to listen to your body and do things at your own pace.

Good luck next week - I’m now 18 months post op and I can absolutely tell you it will all be worth it in the long run. Let us know how you’re getting on xxx

[polarbea in reply to LouiseD1]

Thank you so much for this really appreciate it I will keep you posted x

[LouiseD1 in reply to polarbea]

No worries. I thought of another thing - learn the log roll technique to get in and out of bed. You will really need it in hospital and at home. Good luck xx

[polarbea in reply to LouiseD1]

What is that I will look on google xx

[Munchkinfeet]

Wish I had advice for you, I am waiting for my op too. Have you looked up HysterSisters website and Facebook? They may have some answers.

I have had 2 c-sections, I am expecting recovery from hysterectomy to be much more complex. You should not be trying to do very much and will need support to complete personal care and housework. HysterSisters has a list of what you can do and when.

I haven't got a date yet but I'm mentally preparing:

Large, comfy clothes for hospital as you don't want anything rubbing your dressings, large absorbent pads. Lip balm (in case you're on oxygen), ear plugs, phone charger, magazine or book.

Clean your home before you go. Batch cook a good few meals. Clear your bedside table so you can place everything you need when you get home, like meds, water, book etc. Write instructions for your family.

Not sure if this is helpful or not, I am pretty sure you will feel the benefits in the long term but don't rush to get well, rest rest rest is key and don't expect to feel ok after a few days, this will just put too much pressure on yourself mentally....,take it as it comes, good luck x

[polarbea in reply to Munchkinfeet]

Thank you for this xxx

[Munchkinfeet in reply to polarbea]

Please let us know how you get on x