swelly belly mistaken for pregancy

I came to terms with my hyst meaning that I couldn't have children. I'm not that keen on other people's kids. My philosophy is to each their own. I'm just happy to have an opportunity to feel like myself again.

However, a family member that hadn't seen me in a while who has been aware that I was sick but unaware of the surgery, assumed I was pregnant when my swelly belly made an appearance. I'm 3 weeks post op and the lovely *sarcasm* relative ignorantly patted my belly while I tried not to slap her. (Her patting hurt.) To make matters worse, this happened at my sister-in-law's baby shower.

When I said no, I just recently had surgery, she acted like I asked her the time, leaving her hand on top of one of my incisions. Luckily the mom to be didn't see and her party wasn't affected.

Has anyone else had a similar experience? How did you tell them to remove their hands without hurting their feelings? Any tips on how to avoid this in the future? We have a very extended family.

Thanks for any advice.

Dragon, so sorry about what happened to you!!! It must have been a tough one for you. I do have swelly belly too. Hang in there and know we're there for you

Hi Dragonflyer

Your swelly belly will go down. Prior to my surgery I was the size of about 5 months pregnant and had plenty of people asking me when I was due. I tried not to let it get to me but I can understand how it does. Next time you go to a family function get a T-shirt made up that says No! I am not pregnant, next question! Good Luck it will get better.

im having the same issue. 3 weeks post op and my belly stays swollen. i look pg in everything! its very frustrating but im sure in time it will go down. hang in there and dont be afraid to tell ppl like it is

I agree with hang in there it will go down. As for how to avoid it, not too sure. I know if someone put their hand on my belly as happened to you, THEIR feelings would be the last thing I would worry about. I would say, "I have had abdominal surgery and your hand is hurting me. Please stop." Firmly. While moving their hand and looking them directly in the eye.

Hugs!

	Quote:
Originally Posted by Mais I agree with hang in there it will go down. As for how to avoid it, not too sure. I know if someone put their hand on my belly as happened to you, THEIR feelings would be the last thing I would worry about. I would say, "I have had abdominal surgery and your hand is hurting me. Please stop." Firmly. While moving their hand and looking them directly in the eye. Hugs!

Thanks for the support ladies. I had intended to do as Mais suggested but I was too stunned. I just walked by her and thought of this after she left, lol. Must be that brain fog.

I appreciate knowing that I am not the only one who is dealing with this. The swelly belly wasn't bothering me until that experience.

Thanks again. Hugs to y'all!

i'm nearly 7 months post op and i still have a swelly belly. since my op in january i've gained 14lbs and gone up a dress size but it all seems to be in my belly. i hate it when people ask when's it due, it really hurts my feelings. sisters on here i've told me just to say no i'm not pregnant i'm recovering from major surgery.
hugs

Mishno,

I understand the hurt feelings. I guess we can't do anything about other people's ignorance. Continued recovery for all!