Recovery Time

I am new to the whole "hyster" world. I am 32, and was told that I should consider having my uterus/cervix removed.

I've had fibroids in the past, which have caused severe anemia. I cannot take oral contreceptives to regulate my periods. I am fine with the idea of losing my uterus.

Can anyone tell me why I will be off work for 4-6 weeks if my uterus/cervix is removed vaginally? I understand it is a stress on the body - but will I really be down that long? I was wondering if there is any post-op pain involved. As you can see, I don't know a lot about this.

I would love to hear from others who have had this surgery. Any side effects? Problems? Happy stories?!!

Thanks to all who provide feedback.

Macy
: )

Hey Macy
I just had a vag. hysterectomy on Aug 29 and am just past 5 weeks post op. I am just now also starting to feel a bit more normal. You need that long to just regain your strength I think. I am driving and even back working, but I still spend alot of time laying down. Even with a vag hyst, you still have hundreds of little stitches in there and gravity doing its thing... it just takes time to heal. Your whole body is like in shock and this is such major surgery. I too balked at the idea of 4 to 6 weeks down, but now I understand! You need that time to physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually regroup and heal and my surgery/recovery was relatively complication free ( once I was able to pee again at least!

I'll keep you in prayers....

ps, the post op pain wasn't bad, the drugs helped alot and I wasn't shy about taking them when I needed to.

Hi Macy,

You know, I wondered about the 4-6 week thing too. I am 6 days post-op. I had LAVH removing uterus and cervix. The surgery went "Perfectly" according to my ob/gyn and so far the recovery has gone well with no problems. The pain has been manageable. But I've been surprised at how TIRED I am. My major accomplishments are taking a shower, getting dressed, and checking my email. There is pain, but the fatigue is what really keeps me in bed half of the day.

I suppose it's still early to say if there have been side effects, but so far so good. I am still taking vicodin for the pain as needed, but anticipate I'll be on regular old Tylenol soon.

Good luck.

i'm 11.5 weeks post and i still feel a bit odd in my lower abdomen...still feels a bit swollen inside..i also still get some swelling on my left side towards midday and into the evening....you really do need the 4-6 weeks in order for everything to heal properly...i can almost guarantee you'll be feeling close to your old self within the first 2 weeks post-op, however dont give in to how youre feeling---listen to what youre told by your dr.