TLH Two weeks post hysterectomy and really tired at times - should I be? back to work tomorrow!

I have written about this before and should be shot or told to "get a grip".

I went back to my doctor today as I had already said that I felt ready to return to work last week. I now wanted a reprieve as return after 2 weeks seemed a "big ask". As we talked, I felt really guilty and decided the most I dare try for was a phased return. The trouble is that I am still tired and aching - and a bit stressed from continually fending for myself.

I really want another week but I really feel cowardly asking. Additionally, I occasionally feel like collapsing into a corner and having a little cry - and that won't do here in Britain.

Ideas for stiffening up that courage?

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Rachel39 I have written about this before and should be shot or told to "get a grip". I went back to my doctor today as I had already said that I felt ready to return to work last week. I now wanted a reprieve as return after 2 weeks seemed a "big ask". As we talked, I felt really guilty and decided the most I dare try for was a phased return. The trouble is that I am still tired and aching - and a bit stressed from continually fending for myself. I really want another week but I really feel cowardly asking. Additionally, I occasionally feel like collapsing into a corner and having a little cry - and that won't do here in Britain. Ideas for stiffening up that courage?

Is there any way you can go back on half days? I had planned to go back at 2.5 weeks full time. I was grateful that they only scheduled me for half days my first week back. It allowed me to go home and take a nap before the evening madness began (after school/after work craziness). The next week I was ready for full days but was extremely tired by Friday afternoon. I am at 4.5 weeks now and have to remind myself that I am still healing. I feel pretty good most of the time but if I overdo it, my body lets me know.

This would actually be an option and I can discuss it with Occupational Health when I go into work tomorrow.


Rachel

Hi Rachel,

I live in the UK too and know exactly what you mean!

Well I think you are really brave even thinking of going back to work after 2 weeks. I am 3 weeks post op today and *know* that is far too early for me. I am really surprised that you weren't automatically (and firmly) signed off for much longer by your GP. Mine said 6 weeks and just put that on the sick note without much discussion. She was adamant and told me to come back to her after 4-5 weeks if I felt able to return to work.

I understand that yours was a TLH which I guess is less disruptive on the face of it but don't forget what your body has been through. A hysterectomy is such an invasive procedure, you may feel healed on the outside but there's lots going on inside too.

I know it's hard juggling the pressure to get back to normal (esp when it comes to work) and actually feeling normal. For me, for once in my life, I have decided that I need to do this right. My Mum (many years ago) had a massive kidney op and went back to work and looking after the family too soon. She suffered terrible complications such as a hernia that took over a decade to sort out. It's just not worth it.

I think you have answered your own question. You say that you really want another week. Listen to your body (and heart). That stiff upper lip stuff can wait fir another chapter in your life. For now you need to look after yourself until you feel completely healed. As for feeling tearful that's completely natural too! You haven't been well...and sometimes it's hard to accept that for us superwoman types!

Good luck, xx

Thank you Teejied

Well my GP clearly thought it was up to me. Anyway, I wound up at Occupational Health at the hospital where I work (as a matter of policy) and found that things were not easy.

I tried to explain that I did not feel particularly well and it was explained that two weeks post op was fine and I could have phased return for the next two weeks. There was nearly an issue about whether I would be paid for any hours not worked but we got that one cleared up and I am paid.

On the way back to the office, I popped into our physio department for a list of "dos and don'ts" for the workplace and was relieved to find someone I knew who was more sympathetic.

I am now convinced that going back was a bad idea and would advise anyone else against it - especially if you return home to find that all the bedding will need washing and ironing because a kitty has been urinating on it. There are also the litter trays to clean and a Brownie meeting to plan.

Oooh I feel better for getting that off my chest.

There is a happy thought - my histology was all BENIGN

That's great news that all clear on the histology front! Phew!


Mmm. Well I would have thought that since you work in a health care field that, even if there was no sympathy, that there might have been a measure of pragmatism?! ... and that response from Occupational Health?! Glad you have been paid too. Being unwell and having surgery is hard enough without that as an added worry.

All the best