Newbie - considering hyst, looking for advice

I am very seriously considering having a hysterectomy but I want to know what I'm "signing up for" as far as post-op recovery and short and long term symptoms afterward

Diagnosis is fibroids - this after an ablation and D&C just 8 months ago for abnormal heavy bleeding and a polyp. Recently bled heavily for 22 days leading to ultrasound discovering the fibroids.


I am 39 years old and mother of 2 (don't want any more kids), so that part doesn't bother me. I have a family history of gyn problems and my grandmother passed away from endometrial cancer. I would really like to have the uterus out and gone so I don't have to worry about these problems anymore, but I need to know if I'm inviting in a whole new load of problems by having the surgery.

What kind of hormonal, depression, pain and libido changes am I looking at? Are they long term or do they go away?
How long does it REALLY take to recover? My Dr. makes it sound like no big deal, but reading posts, etc. makes it seem like there are endless possibilities for problems and complications. I just don't want to regret my decision. Would love advice!


My children are 8 and 3 so I have a busy family that relies on me. My husband is good to help and we've been talking about the strain it would put on the household if I have this surgery. Advice about this would be good too.

You are very wise to be asking questions before making your final decision!

There are many pros and cons to a hysterectomy and the surgery should not be done unless the pros outweigh the cons. Less invasive, alternative options should also be considered as they could have fewer risks and could alleviate your symptoms. You can read more about fibroids and the treatment of them in our Fibroid Resources.

Unfortunately, there is no crystal ball that allows any of us to see what the future holds. Had I known about all the complications I would encounter, I would have made different decisions! My surgical complications led to a very long recovery that affected my entire family. Additionally, my health was never quite the same.

You specifically asked about hormonal, depression, and libido issues. Often these particular symptoms go along with hormone imbalance. If you do not have your ovaries removed, you could avoid dealing with HRT and the symptoms that go along with finding the right hormonal balance. I would suggest that you careful discuss an oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) with your doctor to determine if one is necessary for you. The ovaries do not automatically have to removed when a hysterectomy is needed.

Before you make your final decision I would also advise that you seek at least a second medical opinion to determine what would be best for you!

Hi i'm new and asking the same ?s as you but i was thinking i could stand the after shock better than this pain and bleeding and i've had this problem for 20 years my thought is if i keep waiting what will happen? it could turn to cancer or ? but anyway best of luck and remember it's your body and you have to do whats best for you