Hysterectomy Confirmed.....Nervous (candidate for the davinci surgery; what are your experiences? looking for support..)

Saw my doctor today and confirmed that I need a hysterectomy. She is going to remove my uterus and cervix, but keep my ovaries. I am 29 and have been having serious issues since I had a c-section and Essure implanted in 2011. I made the decision that I was done having babies years ago, so losing my uterus is okay with me. I've been traumatized by painful periods, painful sex, extremely heavy bleeding and clotting, nausea, weakness and recurring pain at the site of my incision. She recommended ablation first, but did say that I will likely still have the pain at my incision site. My pain is so bad, you would think I was still in recovery. I'm kind of relieved to come to a solution, but of course surgery is always scary. My doctor said that I'm a great candidate for the davinci surgery and I get to keep my ovaries which I'm pleased about. What were your experiences? I'm looking for support as I decide when to plan this procedure.

Hi Cookiedup to HysterSisters!

I am so glad you found this site. I know having a hysterectomy is such an overwhelming experience. Feeling scared and nervous about having surgery, and especially THIS surgery, is perfectly normal. The doctors and nurses will take very good care of you and will monitor you closely.

Having a hysterectomy is MAJOR SURGERY. No matter how they enter your tummy, you still have lots of internal healing to do. You will have lifting restrictions. Typical ones are 10 lbs for 6 weeks and 20 lbs for 8 weeks. Here is some general information on hystrerectomy.

For recovery, you need to think in terms of weeks and not days. You will need help with your little ones, and you will need help around the house with cooking, cleaning, dishes, laundry, shopping, and driving. You will need to take time off work - how long depends on how fast you heal and your job duties. Again, though, think weeks and not days.

Just know that you are not alone in this. We are here for you.