The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy - Give-Away!

I had almost no time to prepare for hysterectomy. From the time my gynecologist said "hysterectomy" until the gyn/onc who confirmed I needed a hysterectomy was only 8 days. I had my hysterectomy only 8 days later. At the time I was finishing my degree, and my final exam was only 3 days before my hysterectomy was scheduled. I was fortunate in that I had plenty to keep my mind busy, unfortunate in that I had almost no time to plan. I enlisted the help of my DH who said he would take care of all he could. I read the tips on HysterSisters, and prepared pre-cooked meals that could be microwaved, cleaned all I could, lined up plently of books and movies, and trusted that my doc knew what was best. I decided on a definite goal that had nothing to do with hysterectomy: I decided to learn Spanish while I was laid up. Now I can add that to my resume. I thank God I had HysterSisters to turn to with questions. I am thankful I had enough to occupy my mind so that I didn't over-prepare and worry. I hope all sisters are able to find the information and support I found.

What I did to prepare???

Well, First I got my second option from the specialist and we the set the date.
Once the date was set, I made suure my employer knew I would not be around for at least 6 weeks. I started to purchase bits and pieces for the hospital stay (eg toiletries, new pjs, etc). I also started writing shopping lists to be sure hubby didn't need to go to the shops unless absolutely necessary. Then the shopping started, groceries, groceries everywhere. I cleaned out the pantry, cleaned out all of the kitchen and bathroom cupboards, cleaned out the fridge, washed cupboards and all bench tops. Then it was the bedroom time. I basically disinfected it, cleaned oh my wardrobe, put all of my tops hanging in the wardrobe in colour order. I just became like a real obsessive compulsive. Nothing could be clean enough or tidy enough. I did every single piece of clothes washing that was around.
I just wanted to be sure I didn't leave anything undone for my hubby as he was going to have enough to do.

I divided up all areas of my life - finanances, kids, house, pets, food, car etc and made sure that they were all in a position to be safe and maintained for at least 3 weeks. This meant either stocking up, calling in help or preparing. It took about a week to sort it all out without rushing. My partner has been the best and most brilliant support and I couldn't have done it so easily without him. The other preparations were to get 'soft' clothes sorted and make a back/belly pillow. Just after I got home I realised that having a body pillow and a few small ones for tummy and leg support in bed would have been great too. I also set up a bedside table with a phone and everything else I would need. Like a previous poster I also chose a project to tackle whilst healing, so I bought a teach-yourself recorder book and a descant recorder lol! I am having the best fun learning that whilst having to spend more time than usual at home (and no one to hear the terrible noise I am making).

Sure I did all sorts of odds and ends to ensure my bills were paid, my husband knew how to operate the washing machine, and that some meals were in the freezer...but the best thing I did?

I painted my toes and shaved my legs. I took 2 hours of my life the day before the surgery and treated myself to a bit of pampering. I was so worried that I'd wake up "less than a woman" or that the cancer would be so far spread that I'd not care about myself anymore.

Taking that time for myself was priceless and without a doubt the most helpful thing I did. I reflected on myself and how I loved my life, how I loved my body, and how I was ready to fight whatever came my way.

So, I woke up from the surgery with freshly shaved legs and beautifully painted teal toes.

For me, I needed that time to myself. I needed to get myself centered. Best two hours I spent preparing for the surgery.

I just joined this great website. I learn more and more about things every day I log in and navigate around the pages. I have picked up some great hints for preparing for my April surgery just by reading a few of these replies which is great because I am not very good about asking people for help. I find comfort from reading about other women's surgeries and recoveries. I am grateful that I happened to mention I was going to have surgery to a fellow employee. She told me about this site and that she is still using it after four years post-op. What a great idea it was to create this. Thank you!

I walked everyday and took as many yoga classes as I could! I also tried to put myself in a good frame of mind by meditating and chanting by using positive mantras!! I spent a lot of time with my family and cherished the extra TLC that I was receiving from my loved ones. It has been three years since my surgery and I have been so elated by how wonderful I feel. I have so much more energy and feel so much more youthful! I have helped other women in similiar situations by being there for them with any questions that they might have. I feel truly blesses to have been fortunate to have had such a successful and positive experience! Wishing the best for anyone who will have surgery in the near future!!

I prepared for my surgery by thoroughly researching every aspect of the procedure and recovery. I also saved money to prepare for the time off work, cleaned house top to bottom and stocked up on groceries. I spoke to my family about what to expect and what my wishes were and I arranged for someone to stay with me and help out for the first week.

I made sure I took my vitamins and worked out. I need that the good health was important during recovery. Also I read all that I could about what to expect.

At home I made sure that my laundry was done and my home was presentable. I did not get a chance to fold all the laundry but I am learning to let things go a little now that I am 1 week post op.

At work, I did not take any vacation time or used minimal sick time for a year. I am glad I made that decision I will have time remaining when I return to work.

I kept it simple & spent time on Hystersisters reading articles & forums & prayed.

What I did to prepare for my TLH was have 6 iron infusions in the 6 days from appt to surgery...