I'm starting to freak out a bit...

Hi, I'm Rachael... I just scheduled my surgery the other day for the 7th of October. I have fibroids and unpredictable, heavy bleeding. My doctor told me my best options were to have an ablation or a partial hysterectomy. After researching the ablation, I don't think it's for me. So I decided on the hysterectomy (uterus only).

I was so sure when I scheduled the surgery that this is what I wanted to do...I was even looking forward to it a bit (is that crazy?) I'm just so sick of bleeding. This past stretch has gone almost 4 weeks now.

But....I got all my pre-op info in the mail today and I'm a bit overwhelmed. I've had D&C's and laprascopic surgery before. The hysterectomy is supposed to be vaginal only (sorry, I don't know all the lingo/acronyms yet), so I was feeling pretty good about what my recovery would be like, but now I'm doubting that too.

Right now, I'm just scared. I know that some of my fears are a bit irrational...like the fact that I'm scared they're going to get in there and take more than they're supposed to. I just can't help it. What if my quality of life ends up worse than it is now? What if they screw up my bladder or slice up my colon? Is it going to be worth it in the end? Am I still going to be myself?

I don't expect anyone to answer all those questions. I just want to hear that I'm not alone.

Thanks...

Rachael

Welcome Rachael, it is normal to be scared. First things first though. Make sure you have all the information you need to make this decision. There is a lot of information here for you so get reading since you can't very well talk to your doctor at this hour just to ask questions. This is all serious stuff and it is much easier when you understand what your options are and you are sure about your decisions. There are alot of ladies here to hold your hand on your journey. Please ask as many questions as you need to. Good luck

Hi Rachael,

I agree with Mts211. It is normal to feel scared. I sure was in pre-op.

I had a partial hyst for fibroids and it is still one of the best things I ever did for my overall health. I would have my hyst over again in a second to have the quality of life I have now...without fibroids. So I hope you have the same results.

We Hyster Sisters are here to help if we can..so do not ever feel alone.

Sending best wishes~

Mary

Hi Rachael, I am going through the same doughts that you are. My surgery is scheduled for October 9th. I am having a LSH only the uterus is going. I guess the LSH is the best way to go when you are just having the uterus removed. Thats what I have been told. Less pain and recovery time. I have been reading every book that I can get my hands on that has anything thing to do with a hysterectomy. Sometimes I don't think that helps it only makes me more nervous. Getting on here and reading what other women have to say about their trip to the castle sure does help out alot. I just can't wait til it's over with. Broke my toe yesterday so I am going to have a hard time getting all the cleaning and everything I need to get done before my trip to the castle.

take care

Mine is also Oct 7th. You are not alone. I've gone through such a wide range of emotions. My doctor is taking everything out of me. You have to feel confident with your doctor. When you see your doctor again tell them "This is nothing personal, but..." and then tell them your fears. They will smile and tell you everything you need to know about the procedure. They want you calm not panicked for your surgery. They will gladly answer any questions and tell you everything you need to know.

I'm having a TAH on October 8 (just got a call from the doctor's office and date's been moved to Oct. 15. :-( ) and I'm nervous, too. I don't really have a choice about the hysterectomy because there were precancerous cells and could be cancer. I will be glad to be finished with the bleeding. Sometimes for 3 months straight, then nothing for 9 months, etc.

good luck with your surgery..its very normal to be worried and have doubts. i had just my uterus removed when i had my lsh. i drove myself crazy researching the different types of hysterectomies and possible complications..the information is so easily available now that its hard not to read the good and the bad. just make sure you are sure of your decision and the type of surgery you are having (you mentioned in your post your uterus only was being removed but then said vaginal..which means your cervix would be removed also) and remember that the complications you are afraid of are not common at all. good luck

I had a LAVH for the same reasons you are having yours - and ablation wasn't an option for me either. I was going back and forth, questioning it, wondering if I should just put up with the bad periods, but I did it (3 days ago!) and LOVE IT ALREADY! You are really going thru the worst part right now - the anticipation of stepping into the unknown. Just have faith in your dr, ask how many procedures he/she has performed, and know that they don't want to make a mistake just as badly as you don't want them to make a mistake! You'll do just fine!

Thank you all so much for your replies. I'm feeling better about everything today. We'll see how tomorrow goes!

I called and made my pre-op appt at the hospital today. That will be Sept. 30th. The lady on the phone was really nice...that helped me alot too...it put me at ease (a little anyway). It's amazing just how much a calm voice on the phone can affect you.

After reading more here on the site, I do have a lot of questions for the dr. So I'm going to call them on Monday and see if I can get some answers. And it looks like I have lots to prepare for! I'm a single mom as of last year and I'm still getting used to taking care of a household by myself. So making sure stuff is done while I'm recovering will be a trick. My Mom will be here for a few days, and then I've already warned my 16 yr old that she will be helping ALOT! It's a good thing my younger kids listen to her.

Thanks again,

Rachael

Rachael,
You sound alot more confident today. I'm sure once you get your questions, that you are now armed with, answered, things will go smoothly. I'm sure your 16y.o. will be a great help to you. You girls have to stick together. You are in my thoughts.
Margie
TAH/BSO