After having trouble with really heavy periods, and after an ultrasound, my doctor found a large fibroid. It wasn’t in a position to get a biopsy without a surgical procedure so I started asking about my options. Then, I decided to have a hysterectomy in November. It was the first “real” surgery I’ve ever had with same day outpatient, and no overnight hospital stay. I discovered there were 5 things I didn’t know about a hysterectomy.
The hysterectomy would leave my ovaries, as I didn’t want to deal with missing hormones. My ovaries were in good shape so that was fine in my case.
I read up about the risks and was taking 6 weeks off from work to recover. My hubby drove me in and waited with me until it was time for the surgery. The best part of waiting in bed was the blower heated blanket.
The next thing I remember was waking up and being in pain. Of course, they give you pain meds, but the pain that I didn’t realize I’d have was from having a breathing tube. This is the 1st thing I didn’t know I’d have. Of course it had already been taken out, but I could barely talk. Now it makes common sense that I’d need one since you are under anesthesia, but I didn’t even think about this. My throat was so sore for the next 3 days.
The other pain while laying in the hospital bed was that I had a catheter. The 2nd thing I didn’t know I’d have. Hospital beds are so uncomfortable, but even worse when you have a catheter. I think that was the worst. I couldn’t wait for them to take that out!
The 3rd thing I didn’t realize, it took 3 days before I had a bowel movement. I understand maybe a day since I didn’t really eat anything for a day, but after 2 days I began to wonder.
The 4th thing they don’t really tell you: crying, sneezing, and especially laughing hurts like hell for a few weeks. I avoided watching any dramas, chick flicks, or comedies, and stuck to serious action movies instead.
The 5th thing I didn’t think about was that my lower abdomen area would be smaller. Of course, I thought I might lose a few pounds (or I was hoping), but with only the lower abdomen area reduced, any belly roll you have….will look bigger! 🙂
One last thing to mention, dis-solvable stitches don’t always dissolve the way they were intended. You may have to have them pulled out if they are still there after a few weeks.
This whole experience has been new, painful, and I’m glad it’s over. I wanted to share this personal moment to those who are considering a hysterectomy, and if it’s something you really want, or need. The overall decision wasn’t easy, but given the circumstances, I did what was right for me. I know these 5 things that I didn’t know about a hysterectomy may seem small, but after more research, I came across some good books that may help. See if it works for you, too.
If you have any experiences and want to share it with our readers, be sure to comment below.
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