Total Recovery

So many people tell me that it takes up to 6 months to recover from a hysterectomy. I feel physically fine...so are things that could happen? I have always been a fast healer...other than dealing with some depression. Am just curious why they say it takes so long to recover. Any opinions?

Hi,

Yes, full recovery from a hysterectomy can take anywhere from 6 months to a full year. That's because there is a lot of internal work that is done; hundreds of internal sutures; and tendons, ligaments, and nerves which are severed, reattached, and healing.

After my surgery, I had odd aches and pains, especially if I tried to lift something too heavy, and I had fatigue which lasted for almost the full year.

So, even though you feel great, just remember to give your body a rest when it needs it and if something hurts, don't do it.

s,

Lisa

WOW!!! I never knew it could take that long. Do you think it depends upon what kind of Hyst. You had?

Hi, Froggie!

I had SAH 1/24/05.

I thought about it, and based on what I've been told and experienced, here is my opinion:

The first 6-8 weeks, as you know, our insides are still healing and we don't want to cause adhesions or tear something. We take it easy, follow all of the recovery rules, and generally don't feel like doing much anyway. Except, I just about went stir-crazy in the first few weeks waiting for enough stamina to do some normal things again. I walked a lot. It got me out of the house and into some fresh air. It was great.

Now I am 9 weeks out and I'm doing just about everything I used to, except vigorous abdominal exercises at the fitness club. However, by 2 p.m., I feel sluggish again, tired and unmotivated. I'm thinking it's this kind of "stuff" that will hang around for a few more months. I'm not happy about it and don't understand what causes the exhaustion, except I guess we're still getting over having major surgery and being forced into inactivity for a while. I know I sure can't lift anything heavy. I'm not sure my brain has cleared completely yet.

I'm hoping at the 6 month mark I will have more energy and strength that will last all day, a clearer mind, and motivation to do whatever I want without being reminded by my body that I had sugery.

These are just my random thoughts. Thanks for the post. It's good to be reminded about recovery and why I feel like I do. I'm pretty impatient with myself. I have also read that recovery can take up to a full year!!!---a real test of patience for me.

Hope your depression eases up and your recovery continues to go well.

Cinderellen