Upcoming hysterectomy 11/16: Newbi (scared and feel alone; have husband and children)

I am new here and scared to death of my upcoming surgery November 16 I have three daughters and Am married yeah I feel totally alone hoping for some kind of connection with someone

I’m with you.. my surgery is nov 15. My son is in college and my husband works out of state.. my mother will stay with me a couple of nights but she needs to return to work.. I’m not sure I can handle this alone..

I’m hoping this group will make us both feel less alone
We surgery’s are very close in time I hope we can be of help to each other

I know it is easier said than done (been there, done that :-) ) but don't be scared. You will be just fine. You will have the best care possible by your providers. Follow your doctor's suggestions for your after care and by all means, if you have questions along the way, do not be afraid to call the doctor's office and talk to a nurse. It is helpful to have someone with you at home if at all possible for at least a few days and let them pamper you. Lisa, can your Mom check in with you daily for a few days after she goes back to work to make sure you have what you need? My husband stayed home with me for a few days and our daughter came home from college for a few days - having help was most appreciated. Plan ahead with food (have simple things on hand that you can heat up, but that are also good for you too) and a variety of easy snacks to keep you going. I had a low step stool near the couch that would hold a drink cup, remotes for TV, cell phone, etc., that kept things readily available.

While I did not post a lot during my recovery, I read a lot and it answered questions that I was having and it reassured me that what I was experiencing was normal and okay.

Take care of yourself. Your post surgery time is your time to heal. Be good to yourself and listen to your body. Hugs to you ladies - you will do just fine.

Jeannie

Hi Slippers08 to HysterSisters!

I am so glad you found this site. All of your feelings, fears, emotions and anxiety are completely normal. This is one tough surgery to face and digest.

Having a hysterectomy is MAJOR SURGERY. No matter the surgery type, you will still have much internal healing to do. You really need to think in terms of weeks and not days for recovery. You will not be bedridden, but you will need to rest much. You will need help with cooking, cleaning, dishes, laundry, shopping, driving, etc. You will need to prepare your household for your downtime. Here are 10 Tips for Preparing for Your Hysterectomy. Be sure to read the related articles. What I found most useful were the following:
-Meals in the freezer that can be put in the microwave
-Easy foods for breakfasts and lunches
-Loose fitting clothing
-Prepare your recovery corner with pillows and blankets
-Small pillow to hold against your tummy for coughs and sneezes (or pet visits)
-Super clean your house
-Get your hair cut

Depending on the age of your kids, you made need help with your little ones.

I know having a hysterectomy is such an overwhelming experience and it is so hard to know where to begin. You can start be looking at the Pre-Op Page

Ask what questions you have, and we will try to answer them for you. Or, just get on and express your feelings - it really does help. Just know that you are not alone in any of this. We will be by your side throughout this process.

My surgery is also scheduled near yours. Mine is November 14th. I'm excited to finally get this dealt with, but very nervous & scared at the same time. I'm so sorry you feel alone. Reading through post on hystersisters is helping me. I've also been watching videos on YouTube of women's recovery vlogs. Hope your surgery goes well for you and you have a quick recovery.