dVH/RALH: Upcoming Ambulatory Hysterectomy 8/1

My surgeon told me I might be send home after 6 hours. I live alone and am worried to be by myself so soon after surgery. Anyone else going through this?

Hi fs65purple to HysterSisters!

I am so glad you found this site!

I understand and share your concern for being sent home after MAJOR SURGERY and being alone. That is not very safe. Can someone stay the night with you? (Maybe the person driving you home?) Or stay with you a few days? Is your doctor aware that you live alone? Sometimes, they will keep you overnight if they know you live alone.

Here is some information on living alone and recovering from hysterectomy.

I live alone, but had my sister come stay with me while I recovered. There's times where you'll definitely want someone there to help.

Hi Lizardbreath88 -

I am glad to hear that your sister is coming to stay with you. You will not be bedridden, but will still need to rest much. You will be able to do minor items in batch mode, but you will need help with cooking, cleaning, dishes, laundry, shopping, driving, etc. Recovery is different for everyone, but you still need to think in terms of weeks and not days. You will need time off work. Again, think weeks and not days. You will have lifting restrictions: typically 10 lbs for 6 weeks and 20 lbs for 8 weeks. You will be walking brief but frequent walks. These will help you heal.

Here are 10 Tips for Preparing for Your Hysterectomy

I know this is daunting, but remember you only get one chance to heal right.

Ask for hospital social worker and tell her. I think if your pain is a 7 or above they keep you until it's under control. Tell your dr you want to stay as long as possible because you are alone. Advocate for yourself. Ask church to send people to check on you and volunteer meals. I basically was alone and stayed 3 days in hospital. Once I got home I set alarms on my phone for when to take meds and which Med to take and charted what I ate and stuff. You get very confused with all the meds and sleep. At the moment you feel clear headed but 2 hours later it's like " did I take my pill?). The first week I was fine alone at home. After that was when I need help.