pre-op concerns, incision through stretch marks, uterine didelphis w double cervix

I am new to the group. I have a total hysterectomy sched. for 2/12/08. My concerns and questions include (but i'm sure will not be limited to in the coming days)....

I am overweight. I have many large stretch marks in the lower abdominal area where the incision will be. I have asked for a vertical incision to avoid a delay in healing from my belly roll. 2nd horizontal c-section incision took weeks to heal. I would like some advice or information on a vertical incision and how others with large stretch marks have healed. It is my hope the Dr. will be able to go above the fold and wonder if anyone has had an incision higher on the abdomen than usual.

I enjoy a terrific sex life with my partner. He and I are concerned about my ability to orgasm both in a vaginal way as well as a clitoral orgasm. They are both great, but very different sensations for me. I feel my uterus contract strongly when I orgasm and wonder/worry if this hysterectomy will dampen or hinder my ability to orgasm. The Dr. has told us that orgasm is all about the pelvic floor and not the uterus. Does anyone have experience with this?

I also have a huge concern about having my cervices removed. I am a DES daughter with a uterine didelphys and double cervix as well as a short vaginal septum. Any experience here with that? Dr. does not seem concerned and has preformed hysterectomies on women with similar anomalies.

This is lengthy.. I do appreciate any and all feedback. Can you tell I'm nervous? My surgery is 3 weeks from tomorrow.

Thank you.

I'm sorry your facing a hysterectomy, but you've come the very best place to be while you research and prepare! I wish I had some words of wisdom for you regarding your own situation, but I don't. I had a vaginal hysterectomy so I didn't have to contend with an abdominal incision. I can share my personal experience with post hysterectomy intimacy for myself and my DH. It continues to be very satisfying and neither of us can tell a difference. My orgasms are very intense and seem to last a little longer for me.

I hope everything goes very smoothly for you! Wander around the site and do some reading. There's a ton of wonderful information available to you here and just a click of the mouse away!

s, Deb