TLH: 3 weeks until TLH/LSO

I am FINALLY scheduled. I have been waiting on insurance and thankfully now that is all squared away so I can move forward. I am so excited to get this over with, but of course I am scared as heck!! He is taking my left ovary and cervix along with the uterus. I have severe and chronic pain in my left ovary. I have endometriosis and I get ovarian cysts that are not painful when they are in my right ovary, but cause extreme pain when they are in my left.

I'm curious to know who has had this same procedure and what your pain level and recovery were like. I know each person is different, but I am a real wimp when it comes to pain. I also get very nauseated on pain meds so I always worry about taking them after surgery.

I don't want any sugar coating. I'd really like to know what to expect. Thanks!

Still curious/nervous... any help????

I had a TAH BSO, so it is not quite the same procedure. Mine was for a large ovarian cyst (left ovary).

Post-op, I had moderate pain levels, which were controlled by narcotics and Motrin in the hospital (3 days) and Motrin (600 mg) outside of the hospital for 4 weeks. The first two weeks were the worst. I stayed at home for three weeks and spent most of the time just resting. I had extreme fatigue, and walking a few hundred yards would really wear me out. My DH did most of the cooking and dishes. House cleaning went undone for 8 weeks.

I went back to work part time (desk job) after the 3rd week for about a 4 weeks. It was tough, though. And I took it slow.

My main advice is to pay attention to your body, follow you doctor's instructions to the letter. Allow your self to heal - mind, body and soul. Be a

Hugs to you...

Thanks for the reply My last surgery for the endo was in 2007 and I could not get out of bed for 6 days. It wasn't the pain of the incisions as much as the extreme bruising around my belly button. I could not wear pants for 2 months and even the seat belt in the car was too much pressure. I think I am more afraid of the pain of the bruising than anything else.

Everyone is different, and surgeries are different. You will probably have swelly belly, and may need to find loose fitting clothes. I wore sweat pants and loose fitting shorts for about 8 weeks post op before I could wear "normal" clothes. You can also put a pillow between you and the seat belt. Some women swear by the belly binder as well.

(((Hugs)))

Thanks! I have never heard about the belly binder so I will have to look that up. I also have some very basic cotton dresses that I can wear even to bed. I might ask hubby to buy me a couple of extra nightgowns as well.

Belly binders are sold at this site, as well as other places. For this site, you can check the hystersister store. You can click on tummy care once there. I did not use one during my recovery, but many ladies swear by them. It is a personal choice.

(((Hugs)))