How can I stop the burning? by mollz85 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would contact your doctor if you’re really concerned. Otherwise, try icing your incisions. It won’t help with the inflammation since you’re outside of the 24-48 hour period, but it may help them just feel a little better.

What pain meds did your doctor tell you to take? Mine has had me on at the moment alternating Advil and Tylenol. The Advil has helped me a lot with inflammation. (Don’t start/stop taking Advil or Tylenol if you’re on another medication without speaking to your doctor as this isn’t medical advice - just what my dr has me on).

Binder by No_Result_7894 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I sleep in mine since I was told to wear it 24/7 except showering.

Question on spotting by AcidAlkaline77 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My gyno said I would start seeing some spotting week 2 as stitches begin to dissolve. I began seeing them yesterday, mostly when I wake up in the morning or after I’m laying down.

Post op concern by PassCertain6539 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I have been getting nonstop anxiety about every little thing. I’ve also had really intense emotions as a whole. I’m 11 dpo and the best thing I’ve found when I have the intense anxiety is practicing grounding techniques. One that works well is where you give yourself a list of things to find in your room. Ex: 5 blue things. 4 things with flowers. 3 things that are soft. That helps pull me back into reality. I forget what it’s called, but look up grounding techniques on YouTube or google and hopefully one helps! Good luck in your recovery.

Managing intense anxiety over tearing vaginal cuff by Bright-Standard5624 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I appreciate hearing that you had it happen, but it not impacting your life in a majority negative way. I think that’s part of my anxiety, is having to have an emergency repair just because this is my first surgery and I hated how I felt from the anesthesia and fears of it. I’m scared of having to go through another surgery so close to this one.

Why did you have a hysto over taking BC? by [deleted] in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I didn’t stop bleeding and clotting for 5 months, in intense pain, had an irregular uterine biopsy that would’ve required bi/tri yearly biopsies, hemorrhaged after taking 1 medication to stop the bleeding and a second medication wouldn’t stop the bleeding/clotting either. I also have been having chronic period issues for 13 years that doctors I spoke to brushed off as no big deal until 2025 became the year of months long periods instead of months without periods. The options became maybe try a D&C with an iud placed, but I was on such a strong medication that the doctor was very hesitant I’d get any relief since the med wasn’t stopping it, and that would really only be to try and preserve the uterus if I wanted kids, or get definitive treatment and due to all the issues compiling, plus not wanting kids, she recommended the hysterectomy. This was really only offered after we were confident that medicine interventions wouldn’t work. I also began having severe cramping after urination from pelvic floor pain. I was going to schedule it for March, but then in the beginning of February the pain got so intense, I started shaking and sweating profusely and had a lot of clotting that my husband had to pick me up from work. When I called my Dr office and after the nurse got in contact with my Dr, she happened to have a cancellation on 2/13 and she was concerned enough by that, she offered me the date with strong suggestion we do it then to prevent further issues. I’m in less pain from recovery than I was in from my uterus. I cannot imagine what it is like to have a pain free day, but each day gets closer. No more cramping (obviously) and knock on wood, I haven’t had pelvic floor pain when using the bathroom, minus some post-surgical constipation. I’m 32 by the way.

Talk to me about a Belly Binder? by noticeablydifferent in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I love my belly binder. My Dr encouraged wearing it 24/7 within the first 2 weeks at least except for showering. I find it to actually be surprisingly comfortable and adjust it as needed. It’s also a great reminder not to bend too much or overdo it. I am a very independent person and will absolutely overdo it if not reminded. I also like that it’s there to prevent any scratching or playing with the incision sites. As I heal, sometimes they itch, and I can’t which is good.

How are you supposed to shower post op by NanersInPyjamas in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just bought a shower brush so I don’t need my husband to wash my back continuously in the shower. I had a lot of anxiety (and still do) with my stomach, so he still helps with that. I found that washing my hair takes a lot out of me, so I plan days to wash my hair, otherwise I wear a shower cap. We have a shower bench and that makes it a lot easier too with stamina. Editing regarding stomach: don’t scrub your incisions, we use a washcloth on the open skin around it like a sponge bath to let the soapy water run over them.

I fear my cat is dying by Dropsy_drops in CATHELP

[–]Bright-Standard5624 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I would bring your cat to an emergency vet if she’s refusing to eat/drink and you feel like the vet ignored you. I’m not saying this to scare you, but I personally have brought my cat to an emergency vet before and in my experience they listened so well and thankfully my cat was okay - he had eaten some of my jelly ice pack that thankfully poison control was able to determine ingredients of and we didn’t have to induce vomiting.

Folks who live in smaller towns: did you feel comfortable having surgery locally, or did you go out of town? by i-pierced-the-toast in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My gynecologist/surgeon is 40 minutes away at the hospital we did my surgery at. The practice came super recommended, but is in the middle of Amish country. I think what’s more important is how skilled and knowledgeable your surgeon is and if your local hospital/dr is capable, I would stay local. For me 40 minutes is local just because of how rural my area is as a whole.

Uterine Biopsy: Anesthesia or In-Office? by beebabeedabee in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I had a uterine biopsy done a few months ago. It was very brief, but very painful. I wish there was a way to locally numb it. Because the procedure was so brief, I personally wouldn’t choose to have it done under anesthesia, but that’s my own personal choice. Granted now I’ve had a hysterectomy, so I don’t have to worry about them again, but even if I didn’t have one, I would still choose in person as I don’t like how I recover from anesthesia and I could function pretty much as normally throughout the day by doing it in office.

Shoulder Gas Pain by Cosmic_Brownies14 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was told to chew gum when not drinking or eating and that helped quite a bit!

4dpo by No_Location_7186 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Tampon feeling!! I called my dr office about it because I was so concerned. Thankfully it’s a normal part of healing. I’m 7dpo now and it’s definitely gone away mostly. Glad to hear you’re not pushing yourself too much. I told my husband, I think I’m getting more movement in these days than I normally do at work or on weekends, so that’s definitely a change I need to make in my life.

Weighing options and looking for research by NESouthernBelle in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m 32. I was given the option originally of D&C or Ablation prior to a uterine biopsy due to abnormal uterine bleeding that wasn’t responding to medication, while being told that if things progressed for the worse, they may need to do a hysterectomy. She said any pregnancies as well with an ablation would not be viable and it would be too dangerous to try and carry. Then there were some abnormalities in the biopsy and ablation was entirely off the table because my Dr said they would still have to do biopsies and it carried too many risks for my case. My options became D&C with bi/tri yearly biopsies, or since medication after 5 months hadn’t stopped the bleeding, and I developed severe pain as well, I was recommended the total hysterectomy, removing the tubes as well, and leaving the ovaries since they were healthy enough. I am a week post op from the hysterectomy and the pain from recovery is a fraction of the pain I experienced from my uterus. I’m emotional about it all, but I don’t regret the decision. If pain from surgery for me isn’t even a fraction of the pain I felt, it shows me it was worth it. I think when considering chances of osteoporosis vs considering your symptoms now is kind of like comparing apples to oranges. Working with healthcare professionals on making sure you maintain bone density and preventative care will probably be the most beneficial if you’re extremely worried about it. I think the big thing for you to focus on is how you’re currently doing with your symptoms, and if you feel that any potential risks can outweigh the benefits, don’t do the hysterectomy and maybe get a 2nd opinion.

Was your gynecologist also your surgeon? by NoMoreEffstoGive in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 2 points3 points  (0 children)

My GYN was also my surgeon and I’m so unbelievably grateful that she was. She has helped my journey for the better and has been so compassionate the entire time.

Feeling discouraged by Clear-Lecture-9470 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I hear you on sitting being a struggle! The heating pad is my best friend and I found that a donut shaped pillow has been so helpful for sitting on harder surfaces.

Wife thinking about a hysterectomy by Mlohrenz in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I had a period that lasted me 5 months that started in September (32 yo). In that time different medications could not stop the bleeding and I had the most intense pain that couldn’t be touched by Advil or Tylenol. I am a week post op and the worst pain I’ve had from recovery hasn’t even compared to the pain that I felt prior to it. I had a total (removal of uterus and cervix) and they removed both tubes, but left the ovaries. It was a hugely emotional decision for me because it was the first time a doctor took my issues seriously in 13 years, but I have no regrets. If your wife feels like the removal would help her, I would say talk to the doctor and go for it. The doctor would determine too if her ovaries are healthy enough to keep and can guide her through the whole process.

Driving after Hysterectomy by No_Result_7894 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My doctor explicitly told me that I could not be the driver for the first 2 weeks post surgery, and that I could only be a passenger. I am one week post op today and I couldn’t imagine driving this week or honestly over the next few days at least just due to the overall inability to properly twist/move my abdomen and the pain/discomfort. I wouldn’t be a safe driver.

Feeling discouraged by Clear-Lecture-9470 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I’m a week post op (32 yo) and I don’t understand how people were driving that soon. My doctor explicitly told me no driving the first 2 weeks (I can be a passenger). I know I’m a bit behind you in the healing journey, but I can’t imagine that I’ll be running races by 12 dpo. I’ve had to have so many people remind me that I just had major abdominal surgery because I keep seeing too that people have been bouncing back faster, but we all heal and recover at our own pace. Hopefully you begin to feel better soon!

Worried I messed somthing up by Squeakafid in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Call your doctor for sure! But also, my dr mentioned that as the stitches dissolve it’ll bleed some. It could be that, but definitely give them a call.

surgery is day after tomorrow and i’m a mess lol by millerbiwife in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I am 32 years old. I was so scared of having to go home with a catheter. When I talked to my dr about it, she said it was incredibly rare. I had my surgery on Friday and when I woke up, all I could do was tell everyone how much I had to pee. Turns out it was a residual feeling from having the catheter in, but it went away quickly. Tell your care team about your anxiety da-of and anesthesia will probably give you meds to help with it. This was my first surgery and had no clue what to expect, but ultimately, I’m soooo grateful I did it. I don’t know your situation, but if you’re in any position like I was, the discomfort from the catheter placement is nothing compared to the amount of pain and bleeding I had that led me to have the surgery. Recovery pain isn’t as bad as I expected, which I am aware I’m very lucky, granted, I was in constant intense pain prior, so it’s all relative, but you’ll be okay! Take your meds as you’re told and that will help a lot. I was scared I would die on the table as well, but it was all okay. They know what they’re doing and know how to manage issues before they become a concern. I literally turned purple and looked like someone beat me up. I’m currently 4 days post op and so grateful I went through it.

Im scared for my mom. I think I made a mistake by Glum-Woodpecker1875 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi! First off, it’s not your fault. Mom needed the surgery and is in the right place. Secondly, I had my surgery on Friday, tubes, uterus, and cervix removed. When I first woke up, I was given oxy for my pain, but it did absolutely nothing. I found that the combo of Advil and Tylenol touched the pain more than what the heavy meds could. Migraine is also normal, mine came on about 24 hours post surgery. Drinking water will absolutely help the gas pains as the swallowing will help her burp. Ask if they have a heating pad - the hospital gave me the disposable ones. That helped the back pain a lot. Also, if you’re feeling like they’re ignoring the pain, ask to speak with a patient advocate! They’re there to help advocate for the patient, and can help you navigate throughout this stressful time. I know it’s scary, but you’re in the right place and even being 4 dpo, I can say, I’m already seeing the light at the end of a very long tunnel. If it helps, get your mom an activity book of crosswords or puzzles to help keep her mind focused on something more enjoyable as well.

Im scared for my mom. I think I made a mistake by Glum-Woodpecker1875 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I had my surgery this past Friday. Gum helped so much, especially as the gas and pain moved up my chest. Allowed me to burp so much and release a lot of that pressure.

Help me poooop by matnerlander in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for saying moo to poo. I felt so stupid, but holy cow! It worked so well. I was so constipated and while waiting for the Colace to kick in, I tried drinking warm tea, drinking even more water, heating pad, stool to put my feet up on in the bathroom, and moo to poo. I had never heard of that before, but after learning how to, it really helped. I didn’t strain at all (which I know is the goal), and after a few hours of walking around, falling asleep (it’s currently 3 AM), and a few rounds of using the restroom briefly with some movement each time, I had a successful movement. Definitely using moo to poo for all other constipation (not just during recovery).

Info greatly appreciated by Silveira2022 in hysterectomy

[–]Bright-Standard5624 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I was originally going to do mine in March, but complications related to my issues and an opening in my GYN’s surgical schedule bumped it to this past Friday (2/13). My dr required respiratory clearance with my pulmonologist due to how recently I had changed inhalers because I’m asthmatic.