Thank you all!

As I sit here with all the same thoughts as many women of fear, wondering if it is going to help all that stuff and I read the posts, I feel at ease. I am not scared of the surgery, but rather of the pain to follow. The surgical pain and healing and bowel issues. I live on vicodin now and look forward to not. I am so bloated and feel gross. I pray that the pain will go away and the bloating in time will go too. Thank you all for your posts and honesty. It is so very helpful!!!

TAH 6/30, dysplasia and endometroisis with enormous leisions.

Hi Marilyn -
Good luck with your surgery on Friday. You will feel so much better after your all healed up.
We are all here for you when you get home from the "castle"
Take care.... and sending you a big hug!!

Best wishes. I agree that Hystersisters is a blessing - it sure helped save my sanity when I was looking for and really needing info and support.

S

Pain is a scary thing, but very honestly, for me, the pain post surgery was nothing compared to my periods before surgery. I came home on only tylenol and ibuprofen, which I took faithfully at first and then slowly reduced until I was off them at about a week. I've had 2 occasions since when I've done too much and got quite achy, but 2 regular strength ibuprofen took care of that very quickly.
As for the bowel issues, I had none. At the hospital I got a lot of IV fluid and drank a lot, mostly water. They also started me on gas-x right away. I continued this at home and had no problems with gas or BM's. I also slowly weaned myself off the gas-x. At home I also drank herbal teas, including daily peppermint tea. The walking came hand in hand with the drinking as I had to go to the bathroom frequently. Do walk as much as you are able.
Be proactive and you shouldn't have too many problems.
Don't let a day go by without a BM. Don't strain for it, whatever you do, but have laxatives and stool softeners on hand. I had canned pears on hand as they always do the trick for me.
For me it wasn't nearly as bad as I had imagined. I wish you well.