LSH - excellent experience thus far

It is now sister almost a week since my LSH and I just wanted to tell you all that things are going great!

I'm 51 and been having very heavy periods and pain from endo and adenmyosis for a long time. My Gyno suggested we try the Mirina IUD but that resulted in constant bleeding and occasionally massive flooding ... Not good in a shopping centre, on extended hikes or out on a motorbike mustering with a group of young Jackaroos.

So we decided on a hyster, retaining ovaries and cervix if all looked healthy during the op. I have to say I started to panic on finding this site as there were sooo many negative experiences. Thus the reason I'm posting now .... I figure many who are very happy with the outcome don't come back here to report.

12 months ago I had surgery for a twisted bowel, massive adhesions and peritonitis and the Fallopian tubes were removed in the untangling process. Even though I was fit in the lead up to this (just climbed Mt Kili in fact) I ended up with terrible back pain that lasted around 6 months, so bad that I was flat to carry the laundry basket of wet washing to the clothes line. For my hyster I thought the same thing might happen again as I'd be inactive in bed once again so I worked hard on my fitness beforehand to try and reduce this likelihood.

My surgery took around 3 hours and I woke in recovery pain free at around 4pm. I was moved to the ward and that night requested a shot of morphine, mainly to help me sleep I have to admit. I did have some mild pain but it was really only like period pain.

We must do things differently in Australia as I was told I'd be hospitalised for 4 nights, 5 if I wanted as I live in the outback... 1000km from Sydney and my surgery. I requested for my catheter to remain until the morning of day 2 as in the past it has had to be reinserted cuz I just can't pee no matter how much I want to.

So day 1 I really just lay in bed comfortably after a shower, only going for a walk later in the afternoon. I wasn't in any pain whatsoever and was on Nurofen Plus and Panadol. I was SO pleased to see I could sleep comfortably on my side, something I'd read here wasn't possible.

Day 2 the catheter and IV came out early, I showered and then started lapping the hallway at the hospital in a bid to stave off any back pain like the year before. I really couldn't believe how well I felt and the fact I was pain free, other than some in my shoulder blade from gas (which was relieved with heat packs).

I did end up staying the 5 nights in hospital, though it definitely wasn't needed... But I was checking into a motel on my own from hospital for a few dsys before flying back home so figured I may as we just stay where I was and be pampered.

Yesterday (day 6) I was out shopping and to lunch all day without any problems. I did a lot of walking, public transport and stairs with no issues but was very careful not to carry anything more than my handbag.

I see my Gyno on Friday and will head home after the weekend to the farm. I am just sooo pleased that I am now done with heavy periods and pain but even more pleased with how the surgery and first week post op has gone. It really has been a breeze and while I understand this isn't the case for everyone it DEFINITELY can be for some so don't let fear get in your way.