TLH: Realistic Time Off Work/Correct Abbreviation

Hi All,

I am a bit confused about my abbreviation. According to my doctor I am having a "laproscopic total abdominal hysterectomy". I assume this is TLH. However, he also mentioned that my uterus might be removed (after detaching everything laproscopically) vaginally. Which makes me think best case scenario, TLH, 2nd scenario if that doesn't work LAHV and if that doesn't work TAH? I am not sure if the Canadian terminology is different. Maybe that is why I am confused??

I am also looking to find out realistically how much time I should book off work. My doctor first said recovery is 2-4 weeks. I asked if I could realistically go back after 3 weeks. He said countered with 4 weeks. Then why tell me 2-4?? I have booked off three weeks, but am not sure if I am delusional thinking I could go back then? From the forums it really seems like everyone is different.

I had my gallbladder out laproscopically just over 10 years ago (with minor complications because the gallbladder was so swollen with gall stones they couldn't get it out) and I was off for 2 weeks. I have a desk job that is not strenuous at all.

Also, if I wore a belly binder or support underwear when I go back to work would that make it more comfortable to sit for hours at a time?

Sorry for the long-winded post!

Thank you!

You are similar to me.

He is hoping to do LSH (laproscopic supracervical) but if not then plan B is SAH (abdominal) and saving LAVH for last since we are planning on leaving the cervix.

This page might help you with the abbreviations. I think from your description you are haivng a LAVH. As to going back to work, I hope other ladies will pop in and give their experience with the same type of surgery.

I would take off the maximum your DR says, most likely it would be easier to go back earlier then to try to extend it. Especially if you're dealing with a disability claim, the paperwork to extend it is multi-tiered but the paperwork to end it earlier is quick (DR release).

Can you check with your insurance company/health system (sorry unfamiliar how it actually works in Canada) as to what they suggest/allow? Mine allowed 8 weeks for a SAH (which is what I had) so that's what I signed out on disability for. I told my supervisor I was aiming for 6, but then actually went back at 4. I would have liked to wait until 6 but there were some events I was scheduled for that I didn't want to miss. If you do end up with a SAH, I would highly recommend waiting the 6 weeks. I often read on here that there is a vast improvement at 6 weeks, and they weren't kidding!

Good luck to you!

Thank you for the input! I really appreciate it!

I thought LAVH at first as well for the abbreviation. I have changed my signature and information 3 times now as I keep going back and forth.

I did give my employer a heads up I could be out longer and they have told me to take as much time as I need (and I actually believe them)! I think I will go stir crazy if I have to be away much longer than 3 weeks (even though I will be off over Christmas break). I am also fairly new to my job and because of all the medical appointments, I have cut into the amount of time off I can "technically" take without jumping through a million and one hoops according to my union contract. Should have gotten the surgery when I was at a job I didn't like ;-)