Advice for Pre-0p

I am scheduling TAH for later this summer. It is rather strange to me since I have no symptoms or problems, just large (8 cm) fibroids. I realize that we need to take care of them before they begin to cause problems. Since I have a few months I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for things to do pre-op to make my recovery easier. I am a practicing attorney, with a 13 year old son and wonderful husband, but a very busy life, and would like to be back to that life as soon as possible after surgery. I had my son by C-section, and that recovery was a snap. I know that I am older now, and that from what I have read the recovery for the TAH is much harder and longer under any circustances. So I am trying to prepare myself for the surgery and the recovery time thereafter.
Any suggestions?

Welcome to hystersisters! There's lots of information on the main page (www.hystersisters.com) in the drop- down menus for Ladies-in-Waiting.

You're right about the recovery from hysterectomy being more difficult than from a c-section. There's so much more cutting and stitching done. I'm wondering--since you still have a few months before your surgery--if you've had more than one opinion? You don't say your age, but many times fibroids shrink after menopause. Many women have fibroids that never cause problems. It could be that this surgery could be put off indefinitely.

If you do have a hysterectomy, you'll need several weeks at home to recover--usually 6-8 weeks. Some women have gone back part-time sooner than that, but you and your doctor would have to decide how much time you need.

In the meantime, read all you can. You've found a wonderful site here with lots of caring and supportive women. Best wishes,

Hello sbarnett

There are a few things that you could do to make your recovery alittle easier. Since you do have some time before your hyst, you can line up your family and freinds to help out with some of the shopping you will have to have done after your surgery, cleaning"that is a
right after your surgery" remember that even mopping or sweeping shouldn't be done, consult your to find out how long you should wait to resume cleaning, and you will not feel like standing and cooking. I can see by your post you are a very active Lady and really want to recover fast..PLEASE.... remember that resting is helping you heal alot faster if you do to much to soon you will prolong your recovery.Be a let everyone take care of you while you recovering. I too have had a c-section in the past and believe me it is not the same recovery..Although I did recover alot sooner then I was expecting everyone is so different and you should always listen to your and get plenty of rest. Here are some more tips for you:
Have your computer hooked up where you will be resting so you can chat with your hystersisters if needed.
Make sure you have Gas X or whatever type of gas relief you prefer with you at home. Start a journal if you haven't already, this wold be a great time to really write in it, since you are not going to be going anywhere for awhile. You could even get out those old pictures you have always wanted to organize, have them ready so when you feel like it you can lie in bed and put them in a photo album. Buy some really good magazines to read, or some crossword puzzles. Geeze I could go on all day with tips, but I will end with this.
Remeber : even though you migh feel like lifting or cleaning your insides are going to take alot longer to heal and if you do to much your recovery will be alot longer than you really want. Always Always listen to your dr they do know best. Take care and keep me informed on how you are doing or if you want to talk.

Kathy tah/bso 12/08 fibroids/adeno
30 yrs old

Kathy
I am a stubborn old board; however, I do have respect for the advice of not only my doctors, but the many women who have been through the surgery and the recovery...therefore, I have promised myself and my husband that I will follow the advice and make myself refrain from doing too much too soon. I have told him that I will not fight being pampered and catered to (for the recovery period at least).

I am really glad that I found this site, it is nice to talk to those that are at the same stage as myself, and those that can provide personal insight into what is to come.

Thanks for making me feel welcome.
Sallie