A few questions re: Complete hyster

I have the fibroids and am leaning toward going ahead with the complete hysterectomy...but first want to get a 2nd opinion. How do you go about finding someone. Do you just ask your friends for recommendations and make sure the doctor they suggest is covered under your insurance? I probably need to call my insurance and ask this, but just asking anyhow. :-) Does insurance pay for a 2nd opinion usually? I've never gotten one.

Also I have fibroids and have been told it's as if I'm 3 months preganant according to my last ultrasound a couple months ago. My abdomen is protruding and it really bothers me.

I exercise at least 5 -6 hours a week. I still do situps even though it won't give me flat abs. I'm 48 also. Will I lose weight after a hysterectomy? How long after before I can get back to mowing the grass or exercising again? How long would I need someone to come stay with me while I recoop? My mom said she'd come stay with me.

Also, I have no clue, but is there a hospital stay involved? I guess I never gave this much thought and figured most surgeries are in and out anymore. I'm not sure if I'd have to have the abd hyter or not. Doc said he may be able to do it vaginally.

Thanks in advance.

Hi DiddlyDudette,

You might check out the ~Suggest a Doctor~ link on Hyster Sisters:

http://www.suggestadoctor.com/

Mary

Most of your questions can only be answered accurately by your surgeon.
For ME -- I lost 12lbs immediately with surgery but have since gained most of it back.
We're still shovelling snow here but I won't be anymore this year. Those types of things I was restricted for 3 mos (now) but the snow is starting to melt so too heavy & wet for me to risk injury.
I had no lifting over 12lbs for 15 weeks.
No baths, sex, anything in vagina for 8 weeks.
I won't be vacuuming for another few months. I Swiffer most areas but no heavy vacuuming.
Most people are comfortable with someone fulltime for a few days to a week after they get home and then just someone around who will sweep/vacuum, do laundry, take out garbage etc. on a "need" basis.
With any hyst there is a hospital stay involved. Again it will depend on your surgeon from 1-5 days. I was 3.
Hope that gives you a general idea at least

Do you have a primary care phycisian? S/he could refer you for a second opinion. Your insurance company might even be able to give you a list of choices for a second opinion. It will depend on your insurance coverage as to whether or not a second opinion is covered, but some insurance companies require a second opinion before a major surgery.

Each of us are different so we each have a different situation. It will depend on you, your hyst type, how well your surgery went, etc. on when you will be able to return to your normal routine. And often with a hyst, you have at least an overnight stay, but this can vary as well. Some ladies have a day surgery, others stay for a few nights. Or if you are like me, you have comlications and live at the hosptial for an extended stay of 10 day! (I don't advise this route! )

Do talk to your doctor about all of your questions and concerns to insure you understand everything. You can also read through our Resource Database to learn more about fibroids and you might also consider Alternatives for fibroids. A hyst is a major, irreversible surgery and there are pros and cons.

Many best wishes to you!

I only had a two day hospital stay--all was pleasant. few gas pains ect. but the staff is great at giving you meds to keep you comfortable.

I didn't have anyone stay with me but if I could have I would have liked having someone for that 1st week home. Otherwise cook and freeze individual meals and make it easier on yourself for when you get
home. You will definately have lifting restrictions for a good while according to your Dr's orders which are important afterwards.
Just take good care of yourself and don;t try to rush things and your body will heal well.
God Bless.
Cathy

Thanks everyone for your detailed replies. It really helps to see what other's experiences have been.

12lb loss right after?!!!! Gee, that's great.

Being active like I am, I really dread the 3 months of not being able to excercise, etc. 8 weeks of no bathing? I guessing showers are ok? It's just such an inconvenience in life to be out for so long, but I'm sure it will be worth it to get it done. I want to get right back into exercise as soon as I can so I don't gain weight after all this. That's one of the things I worry about.

Good to know that perhaps I won't be in the hospital too long. Hopefully I can get vaginal. It will ne nice to miss work for 6 or so weeks. I can catch up on my movies. lol

I'll have to call my insurance to check on 2nd opinion and thanks for the link Mary.

I have an appt. at the end of May to see where I am with my gyn. I think I'll get my list of questions for him ready and do lots of research. This board is a good find.

Thanks again for answering my questions and helping out!