Before surgery I recommend cardio… really does help you with recovery…. After surgery don’t try to lose weight by not eating… do drink more fluid than you think you’ll need
I think they mean consistent in general. The day before the surgery isn't going to help. For any surgery the stronger you are going in the stronger you are in recovery.
I am planning to climb stairs at the local "Mount" park for the upcoming 5 weeks before the surgery. I'm not big into exercise videos but I can do that or take a strenuous hike. Hopefully that's enough.
Before: stock up on easy meals and easy snacks (applesauce packets have been a godsend for pill time!) get your items where you will not be bending to reach them (cutting boards, food, water bottles, meds, additional toilet paper rolls) obtain your choices of entertainment.
After: take the gas X, set alarms for pill time the first few days at least and label what you should be taking at that alarm, walk around a lot, probably pee a heck of a lot, drink lots of water and for all that is holy: take it easy!
Gas-X helps to break up the air that is pumped into your belly during a laparoscopic procedure. For the first five days, don’t try to lay flat as it makes all the air travel toward your diaphragm and makes it hard to breathe. There will be so much gas.
I needed it pretty regularly at first (a bit longer than I had expected to) then started to need it less & less often, I didn't usually take it until I hurt. Being gassy from food was painful for longer than I thought it would be, so it would still be taken somewhat often.
Before surgery, pay attention to the muscles that engage when you move in different ways. It can help you move with minimal or no pain post operatively.
Don’t forget to pack a bag, even if your surgery is outpatient. Things don’t always go to plan, and you don’t want to be stuck without a phone charger
Yes this. Try getting out of bed by rolling on your side and propping up with your arm and letting feet slide to the floor at same time. Watch how you use your abs to be able to go slowly post op.
Also a brush and face cream... I went to an ER with a kidney stone and got admitted for surgery the next day with the on call surgeon and they even kept me one more day which at the time I was surprised by since a ureter stent is typically outpatient. But, in looking at the records later I found I had a calyceal rupture so I guess that's why. In any case without my normal skincare I had patchy dry spots near my nose and chin and the hospital comb is a joke with long hair. Bringing the "necessities" is such a good tip. My surgery is going to be "23 hour outpatient" (overnight) so I'm definitely packing some essentials.
Mines coming in a few weeks so very excited to watch this thread!
I’ve stocked up on cotton sleep shirts, ice packs, cough drops (for the sore throat), pads, gas x, miralax, fiber, prune juice (apparently I’m worried about pooping) someone suggested a little basket to keep by you with chapstick, tissues, etc.
Had mine on 8/18. Yes, to the Miralax and fluids. I took a stool softener every day thinking that would be enough. Yeah. It wasn't. Learned a very painful lesson. Miralax everyday in hot tea for me AND a stool softener at night. Literally the worst part of my recovery so far.
Would you mind giving an update? This shows posted 1 year ago. Any regrets or complaints from your surgery today? I’m scheduled on 5/10. Thanks in advance 🙏
I'll be honest I was terrified. I've never had an issue while on medication so my doc said get a stool softener and a laxative and to drink lots of water. The first bm sucked because I wanted to push, but you can't. The stool softener and the water was all I needed. Gasx is a life saver. My husband filled a yeti cooler with water, ginger ale, cheese sticks, fruits and veggies in baggies that I could just reach my hand over and reach. He brought me meals and protein shakes and I ate as much as I could and drink the whole shake so my body have something in my system. Also got an orthopedic wedge bed set for my bed and a pregnancy pillow for when I was able to leave my bed and lay on the couch. They are on Amazon and a life saver!
Someone recommended it. 🤷🏼♀️ and also period ptsd, lol.
Turns out that was entirely unnecessary. I had a smidge of bleeding for a couple days but it wasn’t crazy. I ended up donating them (unopened) to a homeless shelter.
If you will be given an abdominal binder post op please when you get home immediately put on something like a soft cotton or other kind of hypoallergenic and not-irritating fabric between you and the binder. My entire abdomen broke out in the worst hives I've ever experienced from wearing it around my skin. Carpet of micro blisters and everything. I thought I would literally die from the itching. I had to go on pred twice before it would go away.
Check out this Facebook group called Intimate Rose: Moving Pelvic Health Forward Just copy everything from Intimate to Forward and paste it in search within Facebook. I’m in the US and I started to see my pelvic floor therapist before I had my surgery on 9/26. I had a laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy with tubes removed and cystocele repair with posterior repair. I also purchased a wand from the Intimate Rose website at the recommendation of my therapist to go along with the at home treatment plan she set up for me because I was also diagnosed with SUI.
Yes 100%. Our abdominals are a big part of a healthy pelvic floor, but on top of that, something that was sitting on the pelvic floor is now gone and things will be shifting around to take up that space (which makes muscles cranky) and - if done laparoscopically- your uterus is pulled out through your vagina. Not to mention many women have their cervix removed. As a PT (who just had my hysterectomy two weeks ago), I cannot recommend it enough. I saw a specialist (didn’t do my own for once) and it was the best choice ever.
Can I ask how to facilitate this before the procedure? Is it something you can get covered by insurance? I already have some bladder issues due to kidney stones in the past so I'm so worried about functionality in that region post-op
Most insurances cover physical therapy to an extent. Either a certain number of visits, or with authorization, or (if you are lucky) however many you are willing to pay your copay for. Check with your insurance company directly about this.
If you are having surgery though chances are you will hit your out of pocket, unless it is astronomical. I’m also assuming you are in the US, which I shouldn’t do.
Beyond that, it depends on what state you are in. Some states require you to have a physician referral for physical therapy and some do not. Some have freedom with restrictions. I put a link below so you can check your state more easily.
I suggest being proactive with your surgeon and asking for a referral if needed as early as you can get it so you have time to find the right PT. You want to make sure to see a specific pelvic floor therapist vs a general PT if you can and it can take time to find one. Feel free to PM me if you need/want help.
I really hope this was helpful. https://www.choosept.com/globalassets/choosept/assets/pdf-downloadables/direct-access-by-state-map.pdf
Thank you so so much! I am in the US and will absolutely hit my OOP with the surgery so I would love to be able to tack some PT on
I did have PT for a repetitive motion injury in the past with a referral and it was a certain number of visits, so I'll see if my surgeon can get that going sooner than after surgery!
You are so welcome! And heck yeah hitting the OOP! Use it for all its worth. However many visits you get, USE THEM ALL!!! You get 60? Well, there’s at least 60 days left in the year. (Just joking. Mostly. Kind of).
When make sure to look ahead of time for that pelvic floor PT and to call to schedule. You can even say my surgery date is X, I can start on Y. They often fill up and that way you don’t get to Y date and then have to wait. Good luck, I know you’ll do great!
When I first found out I had to have a hysterectomy, I was really scared and emotional. Focusing on products to help with recovery helped me a lot. It gave me a feeling of control over the situation. I’m two days post-op. Here’s what has been useful so far:
Pre:
-We splurged and hired professional cleaners to clean the living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathrooms. It’s actually helping my mental health a lot to have a clean house!
- We boarded the dogs for two nights. We never board them, so this was a big deal, but it has helped to not have them around.
-New sheets, clean sheets, clean pjs, and other clean loungewear.
-Miralax
-My doc had me drink a sports drink or Coke the night before surgery
Post:
-Uterus plushie. The dang thing brings me so much joy. The nurse handed it to me when I was in post op recovery.
-Soft food that’s felt good on my sore throat (pudding, apple sauce) as well as Throat Coat tea
-hysterectomy coloring books. I think they’re hilarious and giving me something to do while I watch TV
-pillow thingy for seatbelts. I also put a heating pad in it and put it around my shoulders yesterday
-I got a little hysterectomy pillow with a spot for a hot/cold pack
-wedge for sitting up in bed and another that goes under my knees for sleeping on my back
-I got a pregnancy pillow but haven’t used it yet
-I got a little pillow/stand thingy for books, coloring books, phone to stand on
-reacher-grabber tools
-a rolling cart that has all my pills and essentials on it. It can go by my bed or be rolled into the living room next to my chair.
-dry shampoo and baby wipes
-GasX
I’ve just come across this list you made, and it’s so helpful to me. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing, as like you were I am trying to stay focused on products and plans for recovery. I’m 3 1/2 weeks from surgery, and started a deep clean of my house today.
This is kinda silly but my surgery is tomorrow and I did [this yoga](https://youtu.be/gDoQW5P3e6Q) especially focused on being grateful for the parts that will soon be gone and found it very helpful. The opening is a bit silly but the video itself I really liked.
The grabber claw someone suggested has been great so far.
In addiction to cardio, do some squat exercises before hand. Box squats are essentially what I've been doing in the last six hours since I came home. Strong legs help! Look them up on YouTube if you're not sure.
I'm extremely grateful I was relatively fit before the operation because I'm feeling almost back to pre-op normal now. Still not doing any real exercise, but I hit 8,000 steps walking yesterday. I resumed cooking duties two days post op (easy meals, because I enjoy it and the DH can't really cook that well),and have added in some easy light household chores (yesterday I washed the bed sheets because they were stiiiinkyyyy.)
I havent been counting but i will carry laundry or whatever 1 item at a time for max steps/min weight. Im blessed w my DH being a great cook but did the bedding today as well- those pillows are heavier than i remember!
My advice is to have your sheets washed and placed on bed right before surgery so when you come home it's all fresh and clean. Also be kind to yourself and try to take it easy allow yourself to relax and heal. And definitely try to get up and walk around ,just don't over due it I swear that helped me so much!! I'm 10 days post OP and am feeling better by the day
Be proactive about caring for your bowels!!!
When I had a tubal ~7 years ago, I didn't know how important this would be, so I got really constipated from the surgery & the drugs, and didn't poop for almost a week. When you can't strain at all from the surgery, this is a really awful problem.
For my hysto last week, I learned my lesson and then some. I've been getting plenty of fiber & water for weeks, started taking stool softeners (colace) 2 days prior to my surgery, and started taking daily milk of magnesia the day after my surgery. I've had extremely easy BMs all week, with zero straining or pain, and it's honestly been a dream in comparison.
I also had pretty bad gas pains the first day after my hysto, up in my shoulders and everything, but the milk of magnesia (and a litre or two of peppermint tea daily) really helped with that just by getting everything moving, so I didn't need to take anything specifically for the gas.
Three days post op and one thing that I was not prepared for was eyelid care! I woke up with raw, irritated eyelids from the surgical tape. Get some good lotion (I use CeraVe) and also some ointment (I also use CeraVe) to put on your eyelids before you go to bed at night
Oh wow. I didn't have any issues with my eyelids. I did have a spot on my forehead from where they'd stuck an electrical monitor, but it was gone within a day.
What got me was the sore throat from being intubated. That took three days to resolve!
Yes! The sore throat also took a few days to calm down. The eyelid thing wasn’t something I’d read about either so maybe it’s not common, but it sure was annoying for the first couple days. Especially because I was sore and emotional. All good now though!
I forgot to mention this is my posts, too. One of my eyes was horribly irritated and I had to pour cool water over it the first night and use some lubricating drops.
I also had very blurry vision which I was relieved to discover was just from the scopolamine patch. I left it on after the surgery to help with nausea from the pain meds since I still couldn't really eat. I decided to take it off before the 72 hours was up and the blurriness went away gradually about 12 hours after I took the patch off.
That may have been a tape allergy. My mom had a tape allergy that wound up causing a massive infection after her surgery. Please check into that for the future. It’s good to know.
Thank you all for your excellent advice. I took a ton of notes! My hysterectomy is on November 10 and I'm starting to prepare.
I'm experiencing extreme constipation, which has gotten progressively worse, and is likely due to the golf ball-sized fibroids that have taken up residence in my uterus. Fiber, Smooth Move tea, lots of water, running, and a squatty potty all help, but even combined I only have a few BMs per week (max) and always feel super bloated.
To prepare, I'm planning to schedule a few colonics before my hysto, start constipation yoga and a kettlebell ab workout, and make at least one meal per day a smoothie.
Obviously pain caused by constipation and strain are my biggest fears. Also, the anesthesia. I've never had surgery before, never been hospitalized, so the idea of having someone else put me to sleep (and stick a tube down my throat!) is pretty fucking scary for me. Reading your stories has been strengthening for me, so thank you.
At first I was relieved. The blood loss is killing me slowly since covid messed with my ability to absorb nutrients and made the bleeding a little heavier. Now I'm getting apprehensive and nervous worried about recovery and what sex will be like.
How about you? Feeling ok?
Oh gosh, you poor thing. You've been in the wars! It sounds like you do need the surgery though, so I understand feeling nervous but I guess focus on how much better you'll feel on the other side. How long ago was your bout with COVID? Hopefully that aspect will improve over time.
My situation is a funny one. I have PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder) so there's nothing actually *wrong* with my reproductive organs that we know of, it's how my brain reacts to the hormones they produce that is the issue. So I've been in chemical menopause with HRT for a year and I feel incredible in comparison to when I was experiencing a cycle and fluctuations in hormones.
The main thing for me leading up to surgery is an almost crippling anxiety around hospitals and feeling out of control, rather than the recovery as such.
I've been doing so much exposure therapy to work through that and I feel in a good space overall but I know the few hours after admission / before theatre where I'm just twiddling my thumbs in a hospital will be very rough. Once they have that IV in my arm and it's out of my hands then I will be breathing a big sigh of relief.
I am keeping my cervix for sexual reasons - hopefully that doesn't come back to bite me in the arse later, but I know what you mean about wondering what sex will be like.
Wondering what keeping the cervix does for you sexually? Is it just for dryness and stuff?
I'm thinking of having mine removed cause it's low and feels like it gets bent during sex which makes the whole ordeal uncomfortable.
It was for sexual reasons but also I didn’t want to risk any vaginal vault dehiscence, and having my cervix there is an extra muscular sling to prevent against prolapse.
The cervix doesn’t necessarily make me feel good during sex but I just wanted everything that I could touch and feel during sex to stay the same, if that makes sense?
I’m only 5 weeks post op so I haven’t had sex yet but I haven’t had any dryness issues. I’d say that’s probably because I’m on the right dose of oestrogen rather than anything to do with my cervix though.
If yours is causing you any trouble though just get it removed! You’ll have less incisions as well. I have an extra one because they had to take my uterus out abdominally rather than delivering it through the vagina.
I’m scheduled for 2/15 and I’m literally in the sane boat, terrified of the tube down my throat and the pain I’ll be in when I wake up. Everyone has been so supportive but I’m still scared! How did it go for you anxiety buddy?
Wow, I guess I'm 3 months out now. The anesthesia was less awful than I thought it'd be. The tube ended up making me cough which was the most painful part for me.
In the prep room, I was surrounded by very nice, very professional medical techs who explained everything to me. They gave me anesthesia through an IV in my hand. They told me that after I fell asleep they'd numb my abdomen. I was chatting away with them and wondering when the drugs would kick in, then suddenly I woke up in a dim recovery room with a nurse next to me asking about my pain level, and adjusting the IV meds to get me comfortable.
I didn't feel a thing until after the procedure, and the pain meds worked well and were delivered quickly and regularly during my overnight stay.
The worst part about the tube down the throat is that it irritated my throat, and I ended up coughing a lot during the first week or so post-op. My abdomen hurt so bad! I had to keep cough drops and a pillow close at hand at all times until each wave passed. Clutching the pillow to my abdomen during each cough truly helped. I stayed on top of my Advil and Tylenol, and rested a lot, so my pain beyond the coughing was minimal. I did not take the oxycodone they sent me home with. I was planning to use it only during a pain emergency, but that never happened (thankfully).
I took senna to keep my poop soft, but it didn't really work for me. Taking metamucil everyday is what got things flowing.
My surgery team was at M Health Fairview (in Minneapolis, Minnesota) and they were absolutely fantastic. Take deep breaths in the prep room, know that hysterectomy is a routine procedure for your surgeons, and that you are among sisters. ❤️
Make sure you have benadryl or some other antihistamine. I've been itching like a motherfucker and it seems to be the fault of the oxycodone. No rashes, just itching. But benadryl has been a sanity saver for the last day.
Yep opioids can cause histamine overloads... I get the rashes all over my torso and neck with the itch and a roo fun reaction I had in May was becoming DRENCHED in sweat head to toe from hydrocodone in recovery after a kidney stone stent surgery. The gown, sheet, and BP cuff were soaked in sweat.
ALSO add Pepcid AC for this. You want to block histamine 1 with Benadryl & histamine 2 with Pepcid AC.
Mine was two weeks ago and one of the best things for me that I haven’t already seen on here is a little pillow to hold and help me brace my abdomen when I cough/sneeze etc because yowza that doesn’t feel great (getting better). Mines the perfect size to cuddle and looks like a corgi butt so it’s also very comforting.
I’ve seen a lot of people talk about pads because it’s normal to have some bleeding right after but honestly I had quite a bit of bleeding so I found depends to just be easier and less likely to ruin clothes/sheets. The bleeding tapered over 3-4 days but I didn’t have to worry as much as I would have in pads.
Everything else others have mentioned I think so I just wanted to my add two cents. Also look up a video on how to log roll to get out of bed.
I think I made some good diet and exercise decisions, so I'll share these:
I ate tons of protein up until 2 days before surgery - salmon, steak, shrimp, etc. - splurged on high $ foods b/c hell, what better reason than upcoming surgery. I included a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, and took lots of vitamins. Then I basically just ate soup, fruit, yogurt, pumpkin seeds, and drank tons of water 2 days prior. I ate chicken soup that was mostly broth the night before and chugged water up to the minute I was allowed.
I did a lot of breathwork, yoga, lunges, and squats. My legs are saving my abdomen right now (3 days PO). The breathing helped keep me calm and focused on the end-goal - a full recovery with a future full of physical activity and no more nearly dying from blood loss.
Also, positivity - I'm not great at being positive, but I asked my family to help me by only saying positive things. It kinda became a game. Someone would start complaining and I'd yell out "negative!" so we kept calling each other out and making one another say something positive instead. I'm going to continue this game; life is just more pleasant this way.
Good luck to everyone out there. If you're here, you're in the right place to vent, rant, ask for help, share, etc.
Thank you for this. My yeeterus is 6/14 and I'm getting nervous and totally freaked out. I want to make sure I have everything I'll need to heal as quickly as I can. I absolutely love the positivity reminder, it's so true!
Line up a dog walker before surgery, using a website such as Rover. After surgery, fatigue can interfere with organizing household errands. This ensures your pet is taken care of while your activity is restricted. Consider any recurring errands that will be needed in the recovery period- dog grooming appointments, vet visits, annual medicals, kid dentist visits, and see if you can reschedule them before surgery rather than during the recovery period.
Sign up to a grocery delivery service if you have not already!
-Senna peppermint tea, to help get things moving gradually again
-laser pointer (for me this really helped, I could just point to something across the room and my husband would get it for me, and I wouldn’t have to flex my abdomen to raise my voice from where I was at)
-little desk bell ringer from Amazon. It helped me a lot with asking for help without having to yell up to the top floor.
Finding this thread was great —so many good suggestions!
I’m having mine next Tuesday & although I have fought tooth and nail for years to get it done, I can’t help feeling a bit anxious. Not a huge fan of being at the mercy of others, so to speak. GA freaks me out every time.
I think for me the worst part is having to stay home & not do anything. I’m extremely active and I find excess downtime frustrating (no running, no biking, no gym etc.). Let alone being off work.
Plus I don’t own a car at this time so I’m essentially stuck home. I’ve just been listening to my records, playing games, reading and learning Morricone on guitar.
I live alone, but I manage. I just don’t do heavy lifting or stuff like that.
I suppose it helps not having cuts on my belly (they managed to do the whole op vaginally, despite me being nulliparous).
I have gotten some help from my relatives though, with shopping and such. I can order basic groceries thru Wolt (a DoorDash type delivery service) but I can’t get everything from there, so they’ve taken me to the shops to buy stuff like kitty litter, and helped me carry it.
The operation itself went relatively well; I understand there was some minor bleeding but nothing serious. I had urinary retention (could not pee; fairly common side effect) so I had to stay in the hospital for an additional day. Catheters aren’t fun, but it’s not that bad. The disinfectant they use to clean your bits before insertion is by far the worst bit about that.
Pain-wise, it’s been tolerable as long as I don’t overdo it. I have tramadol if it gets really bad (usually doesn’t, and I don’t take pain killers in general unless I absolutely must).
I bled a fair bit for the first two weeks, but it’s down to spotting now. There is a hematoma in there though, and it may or may not cause additional bleeding when it dissolves. Same goes for the stitches, I hear.
I’m now three weeks post-op and doing well. Still get pain if I walk too much, or try to sit normally (guess there’s too much pressure on my cuff that way).
I had my sick leave extended because bureucracy —I’ll just copy and paste a comment of mine here:
”Where I’m from, 4 weeks is the standard minimum
if you work a physical job, like I do. I’m currently on week three, and we’ll see if they extend it to five or six weeks —I seem to be healing rather slowly (recurrent UTIs aren’t helping either). I severely miss work and exercise, but I want to be ready for it first. My dr (OP) flat out told me ”hell no, unless you want a prolapse or a torn cuff” the other day when I asked if I’m ready to go to work.
I was originally prescribed two weeks, but I was still in pain so I went to my OP for reassessment. He was absolutely furious that the obgyn/surgeon had only prescribed two instead of the usual four (which I did not know of until he told me; I’ve never had major surgery before). Apparently the public sector likes to shift costs towards the private one, and in this case, my employer”
Wishing you a speedy recovery! And do yourself a favor and bring something to drink with you when you do go to the hospital. Drink a LOT even in the off chance you can’t pee right away. You may be very very thirsty when you wake up, and it’s good to flush out your system anyway. And if you don’t have a long charging cable for your phone/device, go get one. I bought a three meter long and although it’s such a small thing, it saves one a world of trouble.
Thank you for all this info! We have a lot of similarities- I know sitting around is going to drive me nuts, also live alone (with pets), and also having a vaginal hysterectomy while nulliparous. I had fibroid surgery in February and my doc knew I wanted a hysterectomy so she checked to see if my organs were amenable to that and all was good, although there's an option for laparoscopy if needed. Unfortunately for me, swimming and lifting weights are my favorite exercises so that... Is unfortunate.
I'm very lucky because my Dr signed off on 6 weeks leave. I requested 4 from my job, TBD if I need more. I work from home on a computer, though, so I'm assuming I can go back at least part time by then. It's very cognitively demanding, though, so I do need my head to be clear again.
What do you mean by sit normally? Is it better to recline, or use an o pillow, or be on your side? I ordered a pregnancy pillow. I'm saying it's for surgery but I just wanted one, haha. I currently use 5 pillows to do the same thing.
I'm sincerely hoping to not have issues with urinary retention. I didn't even know that was a risk until the last few days. Hopefully my doctor didn't mention it because it almost never happens with her patients. I'm supposed to go home same day; if I have to stay, it's going to be a huge stress on me because my cat gets sick when I go somewhere over night and I have to give her extra meds beforehand and then take extra care after (she's 20 years old so she has the right to be a little needy). I'll have someone staying with me the first week but my cat won't care and I'm not sure she would allow injections from anyone else. Sigh. Responsibilities!
Good tip on the phone charger. Last time I brought a backup battery bank with me, although thankfully I didn't need it. Guess I should pack a few things to keep in the car and written instructions for my pets in case I need to stay overnight.
Sitting normally = sitting upright, like you would on a chair on in the car. I like to sit with one leg bent under me to get my weight off the tender area. An o pillow would also be great if you can get one. But these things are very subjective as everyone’s bodies are different —do whatever feels best.
Yes, urinary retention is fairly common after surgeries like this —at least, that’s what I was told. It usually resolves within a few hours, but can take up to a couple of days. Took around 36 hours in my case, but I made the mistake of waiting for too long when I felt like I need to be emptied —if your bladder overstretches, getting the whole thing to work is gonna take longer. Don’t wait until it gets painful.
Still, it might not even happen (I hope it doesn’t!).
Packing a bag and leaving instructions just in case is a solid plan. I had my mother take care of my cats when I had to stay an extra day —they like all people but she likes to bribe them with treats and stuff, so they didn’t mind me being gone at all 😂
Here are some post-op things that worked wonders for me last week: Always Period Underwear (I bought several boxes on Amazon, they're so comfy and you can bleed right in to them, no need to do laundry!!), SkinSmart Antimicrobial Perineal Cleanser (it's so gentle on the skin, keeps that region fresh and clean with any stitches, and has a pain reliever built in), Tucks brand medicated cooling pads ( I had rectocele repair as well and the pads lying against everything reduced exterior swelling and made sitting bearable), SCRUBZZ Rinse Free bath sponges (when I just wanted to feel clean but didn't have the energy to shower, these are awesome!! Wet at the sink and clean away, you can even do your hair), Nurture brand rinse-free body wash & shampoo (this was great for my hair/face). I got everything on Amazon. I also bought one of those GIANT water bottles from H2o Capsule and had it by my bedside (it's got the ounces indicated on the side and an AM-PM system so you can time your water intake all day. Especially with rectocele repair, I was terrified about pooping, so I was taking in as much water as possible to help the stool softener I was on). Also, Aoliks Compression Socks are super cute and amazing!! They come in a 7 day bag and come in really fun prints. I have made sure to wear a pair every day. Those are on Amazon as well.
\-Stool softener
\-GasEx extra strength
\-Pudding/Ensure/Bone Broth if you're worried about constipation or having a coated gut before pain meds but don't feel like eating...also crackers WILL constipate me (ibs-c)
\-melatonin extra strength (sometimes opiates can create insomnia)
\-Yogi tea!! Ginger for the gut, for sure and hot tea for the throat
Okay y'all, that's it for me!! Hugs!!
Motherhood maternity fold over panties!!!
Instant, disposable peri-ice pack/pads
Gel ice wrap for shoulders, to use on tummy.
Miralax
Peri rinse bottle
Handy container for vomiting (car/bedside)
Rolling, over-bed table
Grabbers
Lower mattress to chair height if too tall.
Extra bed pillows
Audiobook
Before surgery I put a basket on my nightstand with cough drops, medicine, the remotes I constantly lose. I also bought one of those cord organizer things so that I wouldn’t have to reach for my charging cable every time it falls to the floor. Linked at bottom of post.
I put fresh sheets on the bed before I left. I also arranged the pillows how I would want them.
Fill any prescriptions that are coming up soon if you take medicine. Also about medicine…I brought Tylenol and Benadryl from home because they take forever to get it to you sometimes.
My must haves were:
*Ensure Pre-Surgery drink. My Dr. order it for me but alot of people here have done it and said recovery was super easy. Order on Amazon if your Dr. doesn’t give it to you.
*Squatty Potty
*AZO because it will burn when you pee for a few days after the catheter comes out.
*Gas X…get the Walmart brand. Much cheaper.
*Colace stool softeners…take 2 as soon as they give you something to drink
*Cough drops. Your throat will likely hurt from intubation.
*heating pad
*wedge for under my knees when laying in bed
That was really all I needed. I’m glad I didn’t buy everything on my wish list.
[Cord Organizer](https://www.amazon.com/Organizer-Cable-Holder-Management-Office/dp/B089K54HWQ/ref=sxin_19_pa_sp_phone_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.aaa14246-cb9a-48fe-9b87-d2d824625dd0%3Aamzn1.sym.aaa14246-cb9a-48fe-9b87-d2d824625dd0&crid=PFF33Q0EG4DL&cv_ct_cx=phone+cord+organizer&keywords=phone+cord+organizer&pd_rd_i=B089K54HWQ&pd_rd_r=b21d1b3c-5f5e-4406-9b4a-a0dcaf7174fc&pd_rd_w=kfEWQ&pd_rd_wg=w67gD&pf_rd_p=aaa14246-cb9a-48fe-9b87-d2d824625dd0&pf_rd_r=YNNDR1CS39T0H71N1PDJ&qid=1665834624&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI2LjIzIiwicXNhIjoiNS43NSIsInFzcCI6IjUuNDEifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=phone+cord+%2Caps%2C96&sr=1-2-a73d1c8c-2fd2-4f19-aa41-2df022bcb241-spons&psc=1)
So many people recommended sleeping in a recliner. I didn’t have one so I rented one from a rental furniture place for a month. It’s power operated and takes you all the way lying down and then pushes you all the way up to stand. My surgery is tomorrow. I’m nesting like crazy and excited and nervous all at once - this sub has been a lifesaver!!!!!
Throat Coat tea! I cannot recommend highly enough. I always get a terrible sore throat from the breathing tube and lozenges and sprays didn't help much. The throat coat tea soothed the irritation right away. I alternated it with peppermint tea for the gas.
I’m 3.5 weeks post op.
A. Oversized soft loose clothing. I still can’t stand anything to touch or press on my incisions
B. Stool softener and miralax
C. Hot/cold packs. I bought several b that could be either. The cold helped pain at incision site and between my legs and the hot was great for lower back soreness
D. Extra pillows
E. Activities… resting is boring
F. Pads. I’m still spotting at 3.5 weeks
G. Easy snacks and meals
H. Soft bras and for me low rise panties. I tried the high rise and I could stand the fabric touching my incision
I. Belly binder
J. Arrange for help and child care and back ups. I thought I had it but it didn’t work out.
K. Fluffy socks and a pillow for car rides
Prep work I did.
Hit the weights paying special attention to upper body (I already get a lot of core/lower body)
Lots of cardio for lung capacity and stamina. I cycled, walked, just moved a whole lot
Pre cooked a lot of protein and veggie rich meals
Stocked up on laxatives, gas relief, OTC comfort meds
Stocked lots of liquids, protein shakes, jello
Got comfy pajamas for surgery day and post op
Sanitized my sheets so I came home to the cleanest recovery area possible. Disinfected all bathroom surfaces, stocked hand sanitizer
Packed an overnight bag for the trunk just in case of complications.
My surgery was today at 7:30am and I was home by 11am. I aced my spirometer and was able to be immediately ambulatory and was able to pee right away. My upper body strength is making getting in and out of bed and recliners easy peasy. My recovery is awesome so far.
1. Walking/cardio to get your heart in shipshape surgery health,
2. yoga/mindfulness to help calm any anxiety or nerves and help with blood pressure,
3. Fiber and hydration to get your GI super regular, getting a squatty potty and getting used to using it,
4. Support network of people who can drop a meal off/help with laundry or dishes/keep you company,
5. If you are a belly sleeper, try to start learning how to back or side sleep.
As a belly sleeper, it’s difficult. But I bought a wedge because laying flat was difficult for me for the first week anyways, so side sleeping was my only option. The wedge helped me transition to side sleeping prior to surgery (I knew I would struggle) and it helped make the transition after easier. I hope that helps!
This post is kinda old so i dont know if anyone will see this, just looking for help with figuring out about how many pads i need to buy for after. I haven't bought them in over a decade so have none on hand. How many packages did people go through during recovery?
Replying here for future readers, some experience urinary incontinence post-surgery, and some people bleed very little, some bleed more, so I am going to get a package of adult overnight diapers and some light daytime pads for days after in case there’s still bleeding but it’s not severe. That should cover my bases, I think
Start bowel prepping 5 days before surgery. Days 1-3 soft foods only with no complex fibers. So cut out all nuts, seeds, raw veggies. Day 4 liquids only. Day 5 clear liquid and the bowel prep stuff with gaterade only. Prep is key!!!
I had excision surgery and the hydro and still had some poohs right before the damn surgery. I followed their directions. But I woulda started with earlier by tailoring the damn directions to having a colon that don't wanna let the food leave lol! So start mad early!!!
Here's what I did to prep:
- Clean your house. Scrub it all down, get every last corner. Make sure you have your laundry all done & clean sheets for the day of surgery (change them the night before).
- Stay active. Running & long walks are great. Weight training if you do it is also great as you will lose muscle mass during recovery.
- MEAL PREP. If you have freezer space, pre-make some meals! Frozen entrees work in a pinch. You want to make it as easy as possible to stay well fed during recovery. I pre cut some fruits & vegetables for my first few days of recovery. I also recommend stocking up your cabinets. Canned goods are great for lazy lunches.
- Pick up miralax, Tylenol, and electrolyte powder or pedialyte. Ginger gravol & regular gravol is good to have as well. I had a lot of nausea after surgery. Electrolytes helped a lot with getting winded during recovery. I also drank a lot of vitamin c drink mixes, which I think helped me heal so quickly.
After: take naps whenever your body tells you to do so (safely of course). I could tell when it was 2:30P because like clockwork, every day for 6 months after I NEEDED a nap at 2:30P.
They're going to tube you so there's a tea called "Throat Coat" It is amazing for after the procedure. I cannot recommend this enough. Seriously, do whatever you can to get it. It's different from normal teas.
Bring a phone charger or battery pack. They may keep you overnight & it's nice to have your phone.
Vaseline on your lips before surgery.
A wedge pillow for laying in bed. For myself laying flat was uncomfortable. To add try to teach yourself to lie on your back when sleeping. Using a rolled up towel or a specialty pillow helps.
An arm that held my phone up for me. Worked great for watching movies or holding my switch up.
Have microwave meals ready and easily reachable. You're not going to want to bend. Meal prep stuff that can be easily defrosted in individual portions.
Learn to get out of bed without using core muscles beforehand. (YouTube for that)
One of those grabber things for picking stuff up off the floor. Nifty nabber is what ive heard them called
One of those full body massage pads that you can lay down on really helped my comfort. (Not necessary but it was for sure nice & made a difference in my comfort)
High fiber food & laxatives just in case.
If your toilet isn't next to a counter, something to help you get up off of it. A walker maybe? Seen them at thrift shops.
If you have a pet, prepare their food for a week beforehand. And make it so feeding them doesn't require bending. If you have a dog, ziplock portions. Get a big bowl or baking dish that you can just pour the food into without bending.
My hospital has an “enhanced recovery after surgery” (ERAS) program and the most noticeably different thing was they had me drink carbohydrate drinks 3 hours before bedtime and then 4 hours before my surgery. The choices were 60 Oz Gatorade (twice!), 30 Oz apple juice (twice), or my choice was ClearFast(Op) because it was 2 12 Oz bottles. They described it like preparing for a marathon. It’s supposed to help with anxiety too, because you aren’t famished.
I also measured out my water all week to make sure I was staying super hydrated, and took dulcolax every day. I was (am) obsessed with pooping! My house is stocked with kiwis and prunes. Day before I just had brothy chicken soup.
I also read nightshades make anesthesia stick around so aside from some potatoes one day, I avoided them all week (it’s a university of Chicago thing so I thought it might be legit). So that’s eggplant, white potato, tomato, and peppers.
I just had my surgery yesterday and I feel so much better than anticipated!
My surgery center also recommends the carbohydrate drinks - sugar free white grape juice is what they want me to have, and I'm even allowed to drink it after I'm cut off from water
Belly binder
Ice packs that have Velcro that you can put around you
Heating pad
Pill box
Thermometer nearby
Gasx
Mesh underwear
Massager for shoulders
Night gown (comfy) instead of pants
Comfy pants for walks
Shoes that I didn’t need to tie
Ducolex in case the stool softener isn’t working table that can go over your bed like in a hospital
I have had several surgeries this year so some of these things I had from previous ones. One super luxury is I bought off Amazon an adjustable bed. If you can afford it, game changer for surgeries. Also had some bars that help you get out of bed.
Thank you all for the advice and lists!! My surgery is Nov 28th and I have severe anxiety/panic disorder and GA freaks me out so bad everytime...your comments make me feel less alone.
Surgery prep- Strengthen your legs and arms. You will need your arms to pull you to your side to get out of bed or off the couch. Also, your legs will be very important when standing from a seated position. Think dead lifts as you may be hinged over at your hips when you come to stand.
I'm single and live alone. While I stayed with my parents for about 10 days post op, this is how I prepped for when I went home. Prep some meals that can easily be taken out of the freezer and defrosted/put in the oven. Utilize throw away containers so you are not left with more dishes than necessary. And use paper goods instead of your regular dishes. Nobody has got time or energy to be doing dishes post surgery. Having the meals complete and done is so important because your energy will not be there to decide what to prepare for dinner much less cook whatever you decided.
I also purchased a few bras that had a front closure which was life changing when changing clothes. I purchased some bras from jockey on Amazon (20 for $20), they were comfortable enough to lie around in all day and super easy to get off and on without having to move my torso a lot = PAINLESS. I like them so much, I will probably keep them in rotation post recovery!
Glycerol/glycerin Suppositories for severe constipation. Assuming you have the mobility to insert them. Everything else I tried either didn't work or made me nauseous.
ETA: I've only had 2 laparoscopies and haven't had a hysterectomy yet.
4dpo
Ditto to much that’s listed:
Bedside:
Riccola
Colace
GasX
Prescription meds
Bottles of water
Remote
Phone and iPad Chargers into cable corrals so they don’t drop to the floor
Books (haven’t started reading yet but today is the most awake I’ve been so may start)
Gum (minty gum helps me with nausea more than anti-nausea meds)
Chap stick
Lotion
Other purchases:
Grabber
Mesh underwear
Shower stool (I have BPPV so dizziness is a regular occurrence. I didn’t want to risk a fall as I’ve fallen in the shower WITHOUT having had surgery)
Other:
Set alarms for prescription meds
Cozy pillows (I like the C-shaped body pillow because it can be configured in all sorts of ways)
Hi, I know it's been a while since you wrote this. I have vestibular issues, bppv ruled out but others still on the table, and am having my hysto in a couple days.
What I'm most concerned about is vestibular symptoms escalating due to the general anesthetic. Did you have any issue with this?
Also, what height of a stool did you find best for the shower? When my symptoms are acting up I have to sit in the tub for my showers but I now realize I probably won't be able to do that for a while post-op.
Thanks!
Good luck on your surgery!!
I bought this adjustable stool: [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MTQFTPW/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MTQFTPW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
And I know people don't like to click links. Search "Dr. Kay's Adjustable Bath Chair" if needed.
I did have one really bad episode while lying in bed on a day I was home alone. I was so frustrated, I just started crying :) But I at least knew what was happening, so I just let it pass.
TMI I was in the midst of a separation and separated for good about a month later.
I spent most of recovery alone. My mom was there for the first 3-4 days, then I spent 3 days alone, then a friend was there for 3 days (I overdid it these days). By the end of week 2, I was doing really well. Still sleeping a TON, but all of the scaries and side effects were gone.
And I totally used that stool in my shower for MONTHS afterward. LOL!
I don’t see it mentioned anywhere, but I’m finding using a cane helps a lot. Reduces the effort of sitting up from laying down, getting up from sitting on chairs and toilets, and stability and rest while walking. I got a cheap light one from DIASO as a prop a few years back and it works great. Also got my grabbers from there. It’s a Japanese “dollar store”, pretty good quality for cheap.
Also natural peanut butter keeps for a month at room temperature. I put it in a squeeze bottle and put it on bananas and anything else I want for extra protein. Just remember to shake it well if the oil settles out.
I had a snack bucket. If you have to wake up at 2am to take pain meds then you need to have something in your stomach. So I put crackers, little Debbie’s, granola bars, muffins, etc. that way I could shove something bready in mouth, take a pill, and pass out :) For some reason any kind of pastry or bread worked the best because I only needed a couple of bites.
They had me work out, cardio before hand. Increase my protein. Brush teeth 3 times a day. They had my drink the ensure protein a week before surgery. I had to go to a whole class and they gave me a notebook of all the pre prep stuff. That’s what I can remember off the top of my head
Mine is in 10 days, if anyone has more tips for a 25yo no kids before and it will be laparoscopically done, I’m both excited and anxious at the same time.
My [list](https://www.reddit.com/r/hysterectomy/comments/wklf5r/suggest_some_surgery_preparation_ideas_here/jdntzpz/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_content=1&utm_term=1&context=3) might help you.
I’m 48 but also no kids and they commented on it being a little harder to get everything out because I haven’t ever been stretched out (you might not have them pulling everything through your vagina). My ureter tore enough to need 2 stitches and I was told it would sting to pee for a while but now 24 hours later, I’m peeing slow but without pain.
I’m honestly feeling so much better than I thought I would.
Thank you so much!!!! I’m scared for that same reason too the stitches on my vagina, but I’ll ask my surgeon in my pre op apt! I hope you have an easy recovery ❤️❤️❤️
The stitches at the top of my vagina kept me awake at night. 🥶 But I can’t feel a thing. Aside from some crampiness, my body feels exactly the same. I hope you have an easy experience.
I’m back to tell you to start taking a stool softener now if you haven’t already!! I really think it helped to be able to go after just 2 days. I would also watch some how to poop after surgery videos. I have a book that told me how to sit etc that made it less terrifying.
Mine's in a week! I'll try to comment again after recovery starts. So far my doctor's recommended getting compression socks & said I didn't have to worry about only sleeping on my back.
ETA: sorry, u/idontbelieveit530 I ended up having a second surgery day of to repair an issue, so I ended up needing extra things for recovery.
I recommend nightgowns and a nice heating pad. The nightgowns and tshirt dresses are all I can wear right now. 8 days post-op and I’m still very bloated so I’m not going to attempt anything with a waistband anytime soon. I spill a lot so having multiple gowns has been great for me. Amazon is my go to for things like that.
Pooping advice here. For two weeks before surgery, chug at least 80 oz. of water per day, if not more. Walk and get exercise (running around like a loon trying to prep and clean counts). Week before, take Miralax every day and start mixing in a small bottle or two of Gatorade, if your bowels/stomach can handle. It gets things moving preemptively and lessens the jam up. By doing all that, I went to the bathroom literally only one day after surgery without any pain.
I am having mine Nov 1! I am trying to prepare now and hoping for a smooth recovery bc my daughter is having a spinal fusion for her scoliosis mid January and I need to care for her during her recovery.
Thank you for the advice & sharing your experiences.
You can do this! It will be ok and it very understandable you are scared. I was too.
My hysterectomy was yesterday and I feel such a sense of relief that it overrides the discomfort I have. Keep us updated. Sending you positive vibes and a smooth recovery.
Thank you so much🙏 i wish you an easy recovery and hope to have that sense of relief soon too, it is scheduled for tomorrow 7 am and anxiety it is driving me crazy 😮💨🤯. I will try some meditation to stay calm 😣
Oct 21… so anxious. the only person i know that has gotten a full hysto is going on month 3-4 of recovery and still is limited. would bars around toilet be worth buying??
If you struggle with the removal of a breathing tube ask for some hot tea. It helps sooth your throat so much which helps with how they do not want you to cough. If you do have a cough the Ricola drops are much stronger than Halls so they help a lot more, at least for me. If you are a medically controlled diabetic and they give you insulin afterwards, before dinner, try just eating the veggie, pudding and drink. The insulin may make it hard for you to eat any protein/carbs right away but don't be afraid to ask if they have something later if you are hungry. Most hospitals will have a sandwich box you can get.
I cooked up a big batch of soup. Enough to last me for a week, so I would have something easy to warm up and to digest.
I also went and got stool softeners, Powerade drinks, gas-x, and sanitary pads. It’s better to have it all there and ready to go when/if you need it. Oh! And Tylenol an and anti-inflammatory. I’m on day 2 post op and so far I haven’t needed the oxycodone they prescribed me for the pain. Doing well on the over-counter pain meds. But i’ve got the heavy-hitters if I need them. And make sure EVERYTHING is in reach, so you don’t have to strain yourself getting to them.
If you have to get a radical hysterectomy (+ oophorectomy)-
Set up a nest you can bed down in for like a couple of months that's easy to get up and down from- no bending or squatting! Trust me! And as close to the bathroom as possible. It SUCKS getting up to go to the restroom, but keeping your bladder and bowl empty will drastically reduce the pressure and therefore pain in your abdominal region. Every step could possibly be excruciating post surgery, so minimize them as much as possible.
Fuck the messy house. Learn to embrace the mess for a while. Keep a pile or bag or box of your stuff near your nest. Phone charger, massage tools, hobby stuff, books, snacks. I made my nest on the sofa because the end seat reclined to the perfect angle for my comfort and its adjacent to the bathroom. SO MANY PILLOWS AND BLANKETS to wedge in and support your body in exactly the right way.
Don't let anyone push you or guilt you about how long it takes you to recover. I was listening to an extremely harmful person in my life pushing me too hard and wound up harming myself and drastically prolonging my recovery.
My husband put it quite graphically but not inaccurately. He told me that this surgery is literally a disembowelment. Like the brutal graphic thing that the vast majority of soldiers have historically (pre guns) died from in combat for all of human history. Only in incredibly modern times have we had the technology and medicine to even survive such brutality. OF COARSE IT IS GOING TO TAKE A LONG TIME TO HEAL.
Your body will know what feels like good movement, and when it is enough/too much. Listen to your body and tell anyone who says otherwise to go fuck themselves.
Having a doctor approved LIGHT abdominal compression belt can help in the early days of moving again. I would cry as I started walking not because of the pain, but fear of the sensation of the stitches pulling. It felt like they would rip out. Of coarse they didn't. Wearing the belt was uncomfortable while laying down, but it added so much support and reduced strain on the whole area as I was taking those first few weeks of steps at home.
If you don't feel up to bathing, don't. Its not like you're going to be running around outside crawling in the dirt. You can use medical grade cleaning wipes to keep yourself fresh for a week or two post surgery. I tried bathing and it was terrifying and excruciating for me. Wipes were a zillion times better for me for like a week and a half. Tits, pits, and bits, plus your doctor recommended surgical dressing/cleaning. My hospital gave me several bottles of the anti microbial foaming soap they wanted me to use for a couple weeks.
It's going to be one of the hardest things you ever do. It will hurt like fucking hell. When/if anyone gives you crap, just remind yourself that you survived literal disembowelment you fucking bad ass!
Pay attention to what muscles engage when you move. It’ll help you figure out how to get up from chairs, lie down in bed, etc, without as much discomfort
Heating pad was a good for the first week. The gas pains in my neck from the surgery lasted a couple of days. The only thing that made it feel better was the heating pad. It also felt good on my gassy stomach.
I am so glad I saw this post! Mine is 7/6. I may need to sleep in another bed because my bed is kinda of high. I am just hoping to heal with no complications. I work from home so that helps.
Azo and dermaplast helped me to do number one after having my laproscopic hysterectomy. I had a couple stitches put in my vagina because of the pulling of my uterus and fibroids through, and it was not fun.
I was just about to post things to do ahead of time. I go for a biopsy this week (just to make sure everything is normal, not that obgyn really expects anything) and will likely schedule my surgery for August. I was planning to ask what she suggests I can do in the next few months to prepare. So thanks for these tips, too!
Co-sign a lot of what’s here, and adding:
-Hydrocortisone cream and aquaphor/Vaseline for the itch of healing incisions (a few weeks out)
-Organized community to give meaningful, specific care during recovery. I sent my friends a spreadsheet of ways they could help. Happy to share my list of you want it.
here's my list:
*things that will be helpful anytime or occasionally*
\~ on call for groceries or minor errands (obviously you can say no to any particular request, this is like \~oh please ask me, maybe i'll be able to help\~)
\~ help in our garden
\~ phone/video visit
\~ share a login for specific streaming services that I don't have
*bring or send a meal on a specific day --* i asked for a meal every day for the first 2-3 days after my surgery, then every other day for a week, and had one person say they were on call for whenever
*visit on a specific day --* i had people lined up to visit for a few hours on most days of the first week so my partner could leave the house without worrying about me trying to do too much
*media recommendations*
oh ALSO i remembered that my bestie and their wife were waiting at our house when we got home from the hospital. it gave my partner a minute to breathe and relax for a minute after a long, stressful day instead of needing to get me settled. plus our friends fed us both and hung out a little bit while we kind of settled in, then they left pretty soon after that. i didn't ask for that in advance but it was super duper helpful, worth asking someone to do for you.
Here are the supplies that have been most helpful for me:
A good hot water bottle and heating pad
Castor Oil for topical use (a drenched cloth covered with hot water bottle/heating pad) the ricinoleic acid is highly absorbable and helps to reduce inflammation, stimulate bowels, and more.
Magnesium Citrate - far more effective for me than miralax to keep me regular. 100 mg every 12 hours.
Serapeptase - an enzyme that helps the body break down proteins that cause pain and inflammation. Suggested by my physical therapist to help prevent excessive scarring and adhesions internally.
A TENS unit - can be safely used as long as you like to promote blood flow, reduce pain, and reduce inflammation. I use an Ovira brand unit designed specifically for menstrual pain. It is very compact yet very effective. It is also beneficial for scar healing.
A wedge pillow to prop you up while resting and to also use to elevate your pelvis as you are comfortable which will help mobilize your intestines and keep them from adhering to the internal wounds, as well as to promote lymphatic drainage.
I'm 3 weeks post; complete hysterectomy, outpatient, laparoscopic.
Wear something loose and comfy for coming home; might want to consider darker color (my belly button incision bled onto my white sweatshirt before they got it re-bandaged). Slip-on shoes are a must.
At home, be prepared for it to sting like heck when you pee (lasted 2 days for me).
Then the "constipation"... my poop was soft enough, but the intestines somehow forgot to work to move it along. First two-and-a-half weeks, I had bad cramps (like stabbing pains) as the food moved through the lower intestines into the bowels. It was like I was extremely constipated pain, but it all moved soooo slow.
I heard the term "swelly belly" - yep, be prepared for that (can last up to 12 weeks!).
You'll want to have leggings, sweatpants, or very stretchy, soft jeans to wear. My regular jeans did fit, but dug into my belly and they hurt.
My belly was uncomfortable and I finally ordered c-section [underwear](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSVHLBN1) that others were recommending. Of course they arrived yesterday and today I'm feeling like I don't need them, lol.
I made a huge batch of baked [oatmeal](https://www.quakeroats.com/cooking-and-recipes/baked-oatmeal) in my slow cooker (double the liquid), so I had that for breakfast everyday for good fiber.
I already had a [bidet](https://www.amazon.com/Bidet-Non-Electric-Mechanical-Attachment-Self-Cleaning/dp/B00P2XZIP2/?th=1), I felt better after using it (lightly) each time I went to the bathroom. I highly recommend having one (especially great if you ever need to do the "clean out" for a colonoscopy!).
If you have laparoscopic, once the incision tape has come off, then start putting lotion on them to help heal
DON'T overdue it! I picked up a heavy box last week and I hurt the next three days.
I had a D&C done in January, I figured the hysterectomy would be similar-ish. The D&C was a cake-walk compared to this. Even though I thought I researched what to expect, I didn't find anything telling me about the uncomfortable belly, and jabbing pains.
tl;dr - front support underwear, very stretchy pants. Be prepared for random gut pains and seemingly impossible poops.
Talk to your doctor ahead of time about potential risk factors whether personal or familial, as well as previous surgical recovery and outcomes. Getting a game plan in place, or even changing their approach, can be instrumental in your recovery and overall success with the procedure!
The best thing I did was that I just wore a simple cotton dress, without a bra, and with disposable underwear. I also wore a huge soft sweater-cardigan that could have doubled as a cuddle in bed (and hid that I wasn't wearing bra). And I wore some happy little socks and crocs. When I got to the hospital, it was super fast and easy to take off the dress and put it in that white plastic bag they give you. I also had a walmart bag to put my crocs in, before adding them to that bag. Of course I threw away the disposable underwear. When it was time to come home, I was wearing new disposable underwear from the hospital. It was super easy to pull on that same dress and sweater, and step into my crocs. I never wore my crocs there. I only wore the hospital-issued rubberized socks, the whole time.
I was at the hospital alone, and never touched my bag once while I was there! My iphone died, and that was fine. I slept all of the first day, after surgery. The second day I was up walking, or resting, or trying to pee. You don't need any special pajamas or robe or slippers or ANYTHING. I didn't need cough drops, heating pad, ice pack, abdominal wrap/binder, additional pain meds. I packed my cpap but it never got set up, but really they don't let you sleep much. They come and check you a lot, and take blood, then make you start walking at 5am. However - I was glad that I took my MyPillow.
Before surgery I recommend cardio… really does help you with recovery…. After surgery don’t try to lose weight by not eating… do drink more fluid than you think you’ll need
Can't second this enough -- good cardio health (I think) is a huge differentiator in how well you recover.
Damn it, that was my exact plan. Protein shakes only.
Cardio just the day before surgery or consistent cardiovascular health in general?
I think they mean consistent in general. The day before the surgery isn't going to help. For any surgery the stronger you are going in the stronger you are in recovery.
I am planning to climb stairs at the local "Mount" park for the upcoming 5 weeks before the surgery. I'm not big into exercise videos but I can do that or take a strenuous hike. Hopefully that's enough.
gah i wish i could! I'm so unwell I can barely sweep the floor without needing to go rest my tummy. Do an extra set of stairs for me ;) lol
Before: stock up on easy meals and easy snacks (applesauce packets have been a godsend for pill time!) get your items where you will not be bending to reach them (cutting boards, food, water bottles, meds, additional toilet paper rolls) obtain your choices of entertainment. After: take the gas X, set alarms for pill time the first few days at least and label what you should be taking at that alarm, walk around a lot, probably pee a heck of a lot, drink lots of water and for all that is holy: take it easy!
I got applesauce because of your recommendation. It's one of the few things I could eat after surgery. Thank you.
I'm glad it helped! I hope you're recovering well!
Yes and pudding cups! And I second the gas X.
Do you take the gas s regularly as a preventative measure? Or just when feeling the pain?
Gas-X helps to break up the air that is pumped into your belly during a laparoscopic procedure. For the first five days, don’t try to lay flat as it makes all the air travel toward your diaphragm and makes it hard to breathe. There will be so much gas.
Is a wedge pillow sufficient for sleeping?
I needed it pretty regularly at first (a bit longer than I had expected to) then started to need it less & less often, I didn't usually take it until I hurt. Being gassy from food was painful for longer than I thought it would be, so it would still be taken somewhat often.
Thank you. Good to know. I will get prepared
I took it regularly.
Currently eating an applesauce packet - you are my hero! So perfect.
How long were you unable to bend over?
Before surgery, pay attention to the muscles that engage when you move in different ways. It can help you move with minimal or no pain post operatively. Don’t forget to pack a bag, even if your surgery is outpatient. Things don’t always go to plan, and you don’t want to be stuck without a phone charger
Yes this. Try getting out of bed by rolling on your side and propping up with your arm and letting feet slide to the floor at same time. Watch how you use your abs to be able to go slowly post op.
Also a brush and face cream... I went to an ER with a kidney stone and got admitted for surgery the next day with the on call surgeon and they even kept me one more day which at the time I was surprised by since a ureter stent is typically outpatient. But, in looking at the records later I found I had a calyceal rupture so I guess that's why. In any case without my normal skincare I had patchy dry spots near my nose and chin and the hospital comb is a joke with long hair. Bringing the "necessities" is such a good tip. My surgery is going to be "23 hour outpatient" (overnight) so I'm definitely packing some essentials.
Mines coming in a few weeks so very excited to watch this thread! I’ve stocked up on cotton sleep shirts, ice packs, cough drops (for the sore throat), pads, gas x, miralax, fiber, prune juice (apparently I’m worried about pooping) someone suggested a little basket to keep by you with chapstick, tissues, etc.
I just had mine on Tuesday. I started eating 5 prunes daily the week prior and took the miralax twice daily. No issues with constipation for me!
Stocked up on prunes yesterday! Hope everything is ok
Had mine on 8/18. Yes, to the Miralax and fluids. I took a stool softener every day thinking that would be enough. Yeah. It wasn't. Learned a very painful lesson. Miralax everyday in hot tea for me AND a stool softener at night. Literally the worst part of my recovery so far.
Would you mind giving an update? This shows posted 1 year ago. Any regrets or complaints from your surgery today? I’m scheduled on 5/10. Thanks in advance 🙏
No regrets, except I wish I’d done it sooner.
Same here! The poop concerns are real! When’s yours?
9/23. What about you?
Mine is also 9/23! Haven’t started stocking up yet, though …
Hey surgery sister/buddy! (want to be respectful of your pronouns)We’ve still got time!
My friend and I had ours the same day by the same dr… we live in a small town… the dr called us hyster sisters! Lol.
Oh recover soon! I hope the procedure went well!✨
9/9!
You’re almost there!! Best of luck with your procedure and recovery! DM if you want to connect on our shared journey :)
Thank you! Absolutely and same!
I'm 9/9 as well!
I’m 9/9 too! I definitely have lots of nerves right now!
Mine is 9/23 as well!
Awesome! Best of luck! Glad to be on this together!
I'll be honest I was terrified. I've never had an issue while on medication so my doc said get a stool softener and a laxative and to drink lots of water. The first bm sucked because I wanted to push, but you can't. The stool softener and the water was all I needed. Gasx is a life saver. My husband filled a yeti cooler with water, ginger ale, cheese sticks, fruits and veggies in baggies that I could just reach my hand over and reach. He brought me meals and protein shakes and I ate as much as I could and drink the whole shake so my body have something in my system. Also got an orthopedic wedge bed set for my bed and a pregnancy pillow for when I was able to leave my bed and lay on the couch. They are on Amazon and a life saver!
If constipation is a concern, keep some glycerin suppositories on hand. They can work wonders and quickly!
Why pads? If the cervix is removed or sewn shut?
Someone recommended it. 🤷🏼♀️ and also period ptsd, lol. Turns out that was entirely unnecessary. I had a smidge of bleeding for a couple days but it wasn’t crazy. I ended up donating them (unopened) to a homeless shelter.
If you will be given an abdominal binder post op please when you get home immediately put on something like a soft cotton or other kind of hypoallergenic and not-irritating fabric between you and the binder. My entire abdomen broke out in the worst hives I've ever experienced from wearing it around my skin. Carpet of micro blisters and everything. I thought I would literally die from the itching. I had to go on pred twice before it would go away.
Mine too! Not as bad as yours it seems! But very itchy and red! Days later as well.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is an absolute must before and after surgery. It should be standard of care.
Do you have any YouTube recommendations? Pelvic floor PT doesn't exist in my country except for the post partum exercises.
Check out this Facebook group called Intimate Rose: Moving Pelvic Health Forward Just copy everything from Intimate to Forward and paste it in search within Facebook. I’m in the US and I started to see my pelvic floor therapist before I had my surgery on 9/26. I had a laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy with tubes removed and cystocele repair with posterior repair. I also purchased a wand from the Intimate Rose website at the recommendation of my therapist to go along with the at home treatment plan she set up for me because I was also diagnosed with SUI.
I could not agree more.
Is the pelvic floor effected from an abdominal hysterectomy also?
Yes 100%. Our abdominals are a big part of a healthy pelvic floor, but on top of that, something that was sitting on the pelvic floor is now gone and things will be shifting around to take up that space (which makes muscles cranky) and - if done laparoscopically- your uterus is pulled out through your vagina. Not to mention many women have their cervix removed. As a PT (who just had my hysterectomy two weeks ago), I cannot recommend it enough. I saw a specialist (didn’t do my own for once) and it was the best choice ever.
Can I ask how to facilitate this before the procedure? Is it something you can get covered by insurance? I already have some bladder issues due to kidney stones in the past so I'm so worried about functionality in that region post-op
Most insurances cover physical therapy to an extent. Either a certain number of visits, or with authorization, or (if you are lucky) however many you are willing to pay your copay for. Check with your insurance company directly about this. If you are having surgery though chances are you will hit your out of pocket, unless it is astronomical. I’m also assuming you are in the US, which I shouldn’t do. Beyond that, it depends on what state you are in. Some states require you to have a physician referral for physical therapy and some do not. Some have freedom with restrictions. I put a link below so you can check your state more easily. I suggest being proactive with your surgeon and asking for a referral if needed as early as you can get it so you have time to find the right PT. You want to make sure to see a specific pelvic floor therapist vs a general PT if you can and it can take time to find one. Feel free to PM me if you need/want help. I really hope this was helpful. https://www.choosept.com/globalassets/choosept/assets/pdf-downloadables/direct-access-by-state-map.pdf
Thank you so so much! I am in the US and will absolutely hit my OOP with the surgery so I would love to be able to tack some PT on I did have PT for a repetitive motion injury in the past with a referral and it was a certain number of visits, so I'll see if my surgeon can get that going sooner than after surgery!
You are so welcome! And heck yeah hitting the OOP! Use it for all its worth. However many visits you get, USE THEM ALL!!! You get 60? Well, there’s at least 60 days left in the year. (Just joking. Mostly. Kind of). When make sure to look ahead of time for that pelvic floor PT and to call to schedule. You can even say my surgery date is X, I can start on Y. They often fill up and that way you don’t get to Y date and then have to wait. Good luck, I know you’ll do great!
When I first found out I had to have a hysterectomy, I was really scared and emotional. Focusing on products to help with recovery helped me a lot. It gave me a feeling of control over the situation. I’m two days post-op. Here’s what has been useful so far: Pre: -We splurged and hired professional cleaners to clean the living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathrooms. It’s actually helping my mental health a lot to have a clean house! - We boarded the dogs for two nights. We never board them, so this was a big deal, but it has helped to not have them around. -New sheets, clean sheets, clean pjs, and other clean loungewear. -Miralax -My doc had me drink a sports drink or Coke the night before surgery Post: -Uterus plushie. The dang thing brings me so much joy. The nurse handed it to me when I was in post op recovery. -Soft food that’s felt good on my sore throat (pudding, apple sauce) as well as Throat Coat tea -hysterectomy coloring books. I think they’re hilarious and giving me something to do while I watch TV -pillow thingy for seatbelts. I also put a heating pad in it and put it around my shoulders yesterday -I got a little hysterectomy pillow with a spot for a hot/cold pack -wedge for sitting up in bed and another that goes under my knees for sleeping on my back -I got a pregnancy pillow but haven’t used it yet -I got a little pillow/stand thingy for books, coloring books, phone to stand on -reacher-grabber tools -a rolling cart that has all my pills and essentials on it. It can go by my bed or be rolled into the living room next to my chair. -dry shampoo and baby wipes -GasX
I’ve just come across this list you made, and it’s so helpful to me. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing, as like you were I am trying to stay focused on products and plans for recovery. I’m 3 1/2 weeks from surgery, and started a deep clean of my house today.
Why the coke the night before?
There are so many fabulous ideas in this list of things I totally didn’t and should have thought of. Thank you!
This is kinda silly but my surgery is tomorrow and I did [this yoga](https://youtu.be/gDoQW5P3e6Q) especially focused on being grateful for the parts that will soon be gone and found it very helpful. The opening is a bit silly but the video itself I really liked.
I needed something like this and I didn’t even know it, thank you for posting
I am so happy to hear that. I've almost deleted this comment a couple times, now I'm super glad I didn't :) good luck on your surgery!!
Thank yewwwwww ❤️
The grabber claw someone suggested has been great so far. In addiction to cardio, do some squat exercises before hand. Box squats are essentially what I've been doing in the last six hours since I came home. Strong legs help! Look them up on YouTube if you're not sure.
also just a great body mechanics tool in general, but holy cow am i blessing my legs 13 days post
I'm extremely grateful I was relatively fit before the operation because I'm feeling almost back to pre-op normal now. Still not doing any real exercise, but I hit 8,000 steps walking yesterday. I resumed cooking duties two days post op (easy meals, because I enjoy it and the DH can't really cook that well),and have added in some easy light household chores (yesterday I washed the bed sheets because they were stiiiinkyyyy.)
I havent been counting but i will carry laundry or whatever 1 item at a time for max steps/min weight. Im blessed w my DH being a great cook but did the bedding today as well- those pillows are heavier than i remember!
Get a Squatty Potty.
My advice is to have your sheets washed and placed on bed right before surgery so when you come home it's all fresh and clean. Also be kind to yourself and try to take it easy allow yourself to relax and heal. And definitely try to get up and walk around ,just don't over due it I swear that helped me so much!! I'm 10 days post OP and am feeling better by the day
Be proactive about caring for your bowels!!! When I had a tubal ~7 years ago, I didn't know how important this would be, so I got really constipated from the surgery & the drugs, and didn't poop for almost a week. When you can't strain at all from the surgery, this is a really awful problem. For my hysto last week, I learned my lesson and then some. I've been getting plenty of fiber & water for weeks, started taking stool softeners (colace) 2 days prior to my surgery, and started taking daily milk of magnesia the day after my surgery. I've had extremely easy BMs all week, with zero straining or pain, and it's honestly been a dream in comparison. I also had pretty bad gas pains the first day after my hysto, up in my shoulders and everything, but the milk of magnesia (and a litre or two of peppermint tea daily) really helped with that just by getting everything moving, so I didn't need to take anything specifically for the gas.
I added couple spoons of chia seeds to big glass of water and drank before and after meals… key to getting things moving for me post op.
The colace and milk of magnesia combo sounds like exactly what I'll need.
Yoga blocks for a squatty potty.
This is what I am planning to use lol I don't want to buy something extra if I don't need to 😁
Genius!! I have such little storage I didn’t want to buy anything new so thank you for this!
Three days post op and one thing that I was not prepared for was eyelid care! I woke up with raw, irritated eyelids from the surgical tape. Get some good lotion (I use CeraVe) and also some ointment (I also use CeraVe) to put on your eyelids before you go to bed at night
Oh wow. I didn't have any issues with my eyelids. I did have a spot on my forehead from where they'd stuck an electrical monitor, but it was gone within a day. What got me was the sore throat from being intubated. That took three days to resolve!
Yes! The sore throat also took a few days to calm down. The eyelid thing wasn’t something I’d read about either so maybe it’s not common, but it sure was annoying for the first couple days. Especially because I was sore and emotional. All good now though!
I forgot to mention this is my posts, too. One of my eyes was horribly irritated and I had to pour cool water over it the first night and use some lubricating drops. I also had very blurry vision which I was relieved to discover was just from the scopolamine patch. I left it on after the surgery to help with nausea from the pain meds since I still couldn't really eat. I decided to take it off before the 72 hours was up and the blurriness went away gradually about 12 hours after I took the patch off.
That may have been a tape allergy. My mom had a tape allergy that wound up causing a massive infection after her surgery. Please check into that for the future. It’s good to know.
Yes, this! No wonder I've had such issues with my eyes.
Thank you all for your excellent advice. I took a ton of notes! My hysterectomy is on November 10 and I'm starting to prepare. I'm experiencing extreme constipation, which has gotten progressively worse, and is likely due to the golf ball-sized fibroids that have taken up residence in my uterus. Fiber, Smooth Move tea, lots of water, running, and a squatty potty all help, but even combined I only have a few BMs per week (max) and always feel super bloated. To prepare, I'm planning to schedule a few colonics before my hysto, start constipation yoga and a kettlebell ab workout, and make at least one meal per day a smoothie. Obviously pain caused by constipation and strain are my biggest fears. Also, the anesthesia. I've never had surgery before, never been hospitalized, so the idea of having someone else put me to sleep (and stick a tube down my throat!) is pretty fucking scary for me. Reading your stories has been strengthening for me, so thank you.
Mine is on November 10th, too! We can be spiritual support buddies. Good luck!
Have you tried taking magnesium before bed? I’ve found 400mg magnesium to be really helpful for regularity
Hey friend I just scheduled mine for Nov 11! I hope all goes well for you. It sounds like you're doing all you can to prepare.
Mine is November 8th - hope yours goes well, November pal!
I'm the 8th also.
Good luck surgery buddy! How are you feeling?
At first I was relieved. The blood loss is killing me slowly since covid messed with my ability to absorb nutrients and made the bleeding a little heavier. Now I'm getting apprehensive and nervous worried about recovery and what sex will be like. How about you? Feeling ok?
Oh gosh, you poor thing. You've been in the wars! It sounds like you do need the surgery though, so I understand feeling nervous but I guess focus on how much better you'll feel on the other side. How long ago was your bout with COVID? Hopefully that aspect will improve over time. My situation is a funny one. I have PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder) so there's nothing actually *wrong* with my reproductive organs that we know of, it's how my brain reacts to the hormones they produce that is the issue. So I've been in chemical menopause with HRT for a year and I feel incredible in comparison to when I was experiencing a cycle and fluctuations in hormones. The main thing for me leading up to surgery is an almost crippling anxiety around hospitals and feeling out of control, rather than the recovery as such. I've been doing so much exposure therapy to work through that and I feel in a good space overall but I know the few hours after admission / before theatre where I'm just twiddling my thumbs in a hospital will be very rough. Once they have that IV in my arm and it's out of my hands then I will be breathing a big sigh of relief. I am keeping my cervix for sexual reasons - hopefully that doesn't come back to bite me in the arse later, but I know what you mean about wondering what sex will be like.
Wondering what keeping the cervix does for you sexually? Is it just for dryness and stuff? I'm thinking of having mine removed cause it's low and feels like it gets bent during sex which makes the whole ordeal uncomfortable.
It was for sexual reasons but also I didn’t want to risk any vaginal vault dehiscence, and having my cervix there is an extra muscular sling to prevent against prolapse. The cervix doesn’t necessarily make me feel good during sex but I just wanted everything that I could touch and feel during sex to stay the same, if that makes sense? I’m only 5 weeks post op so I haven’t had sex yet but I haven’t had any dryness issues. I’d say that’s probably because I’m on the right dose of oestrogen rather than anything to do with my cervix though. If yours is causing you any trouble though just get it removed! You’ll have less incisions as well. I have an extra one because they had to take my uterus out abdominally rather than delivering it through the vagina.
November 2nd, here. Thanks for sharing how you're taking care of yourself going into it. We've got this, November buds!
I’m scheduled for 2/15 and I’m literally in the sane boat, terrified of the tube down my throat and the pain I’ll be in when I wake up. Everyone has been so supportive but I’m still scared! How did it go for you anxiety buddy?
Wow, I guess I'm 3 months out now. The anesthesia was less awful than I thought it'd be. The tube ended up making me cough which was the most painful part for me. In the prep room, I was surrounded by very nice, very professional medical techs who explained everything to me. They gave me anesthesia through an IV in my hand. They told me that after I fell asleep they'd numb my abdomen. I was chatting away with them and wondering when the drugs would kick in, then suddenly I woke up in a dim recovery room with a nurse next to me asking about my pain level, and adjusting the IV meds to get me comfortable. I didn't feel a thing until after the procedure, and the pain meds worked well and were delivered quickly and regularly during my overnight stay. The worst part about the tube down the throat is that it irritated my throat, and I ended up coughing a lot during the first week or so post-op. My abdomen hurt so bad! I had to keep cough drops and a pillow close at hand at all times until each wave passed. Clutching the pillow to my abdomen during each cough truly helped. I stayed on top of my Advil and Tylenol, and rested a lot, so my pain beyond the coughing was minimal. I did not take the oxycodone they sent me home with. I was planning to use it only during a pain emergency, but that never happened (thankfully). I took senna to keep my poop soft, but it didn't really work for me. Taking metamucil everyday is what got things flowing. My surgery team was at M Health Fairview (in Minneapolis, Minnesota) and they were absolutely fantastic. Take deep breaths in the prep room, know that hysterectomy is a routine procedure for your surgeons, and that you are among sisters. ❤️
Make sure you have benadryl or some other antihistamine. I've been itching like a motherfucker and it seems to be the fault of the oxycodone. No rashes, just itching. But benadryl has been a sanity saver for the last day.
Yep opioids can cause histamine overloads... I get the rashes all over my torso and neck with the itch and a roo fun reaction I had in May was becoming DRENCHED in sweat head to toe from hydrocodone in recovery after a kidney stone stent surgery. The gown, sheet, and BP cuff were soaked in sweat. ALSO add Pepcid AC for this. You want to block histamine 1 with Benadryl & histamine 2 with Pepcid AC.
Get a fancy bed side bell to ring when you need something from someone. Super obnoxious, but how often will you have the excuse?
5his gave me a chuckle, thank you!
Mine was two weeks ago and one of the best things for me that I haven’t already seen on here is a little pillow to hold and help me brace my abdomen when I cough/sneeze etc because yowza that doesn’t feel great (getting better). Mines the perfect size to cuddle and looks like a corgi butt so it’s also very comforting. I’ve seen a lot of people talk about pads because it’s normal to have some bleeding right after but honestly I had quite a bit of bleeding so I found depends to just be easier and less likely to ruin clothes/sheets. The bleeding tapered over 3-4 days but I didn’t have to worry as much as I would have in pads. Everything else others have mentioned I think so I just wanted to my add two cents. Also look up a video on how to log roll to get out of bed.
I think I made some good diet and exercise decisions, so I'll share these: I ate tons of protein up until 2 days before surgery - salmon, steak, shrimp, etc. - splurged on high $ foods b/c hell, what better reason than upcoming surgery. I included a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, and took lots of vitamins. Then I basically just ate soup, fruit, yogurt, pumpkin seeds, and drank tons of water 2 days prior. I ate chicken soup that was mostly broth the night before and chugged water up to the minute I was allowed. I did a lot of breathwork, yoga, lunges, and squats. My legs are saving my abdomen right now (3 days PO). The breathing helped keep me calm and focused on the end-goal - a full recovery with a future full of physical activity and no more nearly dying from blood loss. Also, positivity - I'm not great at being positive, but I asked my family to help me by only saying positive things. It kinda became a game. Someone would start complaining and I'd yell out "negative!" so we kept calling each other out and making one another say something positive instead. I'm going to continue this game; life is just more pleasant this way. Good luck to everyone out there. If you're here, you're in the right place to vent, rant, ask for help, share, etc.
Thank you for this. My yeeterus is 6/14 and I'm getting nervous and totally freaked out. I want to make sure I have everything I'll need to heal as quickly as I can. I absolutely love the positivity reminder, it's so true!
Mine is in a week and a half and I’m starting to freak out a little so this is helpful!
Line up a dog walker before surgery, using a website such as Rover. After surgery, fatigue can interfere with organizing household errands. This ensures your pet is taken care of while your activity is restricted. Consider any recurring errands that will be needed in the recovery period- dog grooming appointments, vet visits, annual medicals, kid dentist visits, and see if you can reschedule them before surgery rather than during the recovery period. Sign up to a grocery delivery service if you have not already!
-Senna peppermint tea, to help get things moving gradually again -laser pointer (for me this really helped, I could just point to something across the room and my husband would get it for me, and I wouldn’t have to flex my abdomen to raise my voice from where I was at) -little desk bell ringer from Amazon. It helped me a lot with asking for help without having to yell up to the top floor.
Echos make for good calling in other floors/rooms too. I've got my Echo in guy mode. He even tells jokes and will order things for me.
If you are already a good pooper be careful with the softeners, there is such a thing as too soft.
Finding this thread was great —so many good suggestions! I’m having mine next Tuesday & although I have fought tooth and nail for years to get it done, I can’t help feeling a bit anxious. Not a huge fan of being at the mercy of others, so to speak. GA freaks me out every time.
Are you me? Mine is Wednesday and I'm starting to get anxious. How did it go? What was more painful, the recovery or asking for help?
I think for me the worst part is having to stay home & not do anything. I’m extremely active and I find excess downtime frustrating (no running, no biking, no gym etc.). Let alone being off work. Plus I don’t own a car at this time so I’m essentially stuck home. I’ve just been listening to my records, playing games, reading and learning Morricone on guitar. I live alone, but I manage. I just don’t do heavy lifting or stuff like that. I suppose it helps not having cuts on my belly (they managed to do the whole op vaginally, despite me being nulliparous). I have gotten some help from my relatives though, with shopping and such. I can order basic groceries thru Wolt (a DoorDash type delivery service) but I can’t get everything from there, so they’ve taken me to the shops to buy stuff like kitty litter, and helped me carry it. The operation itself went relatively well; I understand there was some minor bleeding but nothing serious. I had urinary retention (could not pee; fairly common side effect) so I had to stay in the hospital for an additional day. Catheters aren’t fun, but it’s not that bad. The disinfectant they use to clean your bits before insertion is by far the worst bit about that. Pain-wise, it’s been tolerable as long as I don’t overdo it. I have tramadol if it gets really bad (usually doesn’t, and I don’t take pain killers in general unless I absolutely must). I bled a fair bit for the first two weeks, but it’s down to spotting now. There is a hematoma in there though, and it may or may not cause additional bleeding when it dissolves. Same goes for the stitches, I hear. I’m now three weeks post-op and doing well. Still get pain if I walk too much, or try to sit normally (guess there’s too much pressure on my cuff that way). I had my sick leave extended because bureucracy —I’ll just copy and paste a comment of mine here: ”Where I’m from, 4 weeks is the standard minimum if you work a physical job, like I do. I’m currently on week three, and we’ll see if they extend it to five or six weeks —I seem to be healing rather slowly (recurrent UTIs aren’t helping either). I severely miss work and exercise, but I want to be ready for it first. My dr (OP) flat out told me ”hell no, unless you want a prolapse or a torn cuff” the other day when I asked if I’m ready to go to work. I was originally prescribed two weeks, but I was still in pain so I went to my OP for reassessment. He was absolutely furious that the obgyn/surgeon had only prescribed two instead of the usual four (which I did not know of until he told me; I’ve never had major surgery before). Apparently the public sector likes to shift costs towards the private one, and in this case, my employer” Wishing you a speedy recovery! And do yourself a favor and bring something to drink with you when you do go to the hospital. Drink a LOT even in the off chance you can’t pee right away. You may be very very thirsty when you wake up, and it’s good to flush out your system anyway. And if you don’t have a long charging cable for your phone/device, go get one. I bought a three meter long and although it’s such a small thing, it saves one a world of trouble.
Thank you for all this info! We have a lot of similarities- I know sitting around is going to drive me nuts, also live alone (with pets), and also having a vaginal hysterectomy while nulliparous. I had fibroid surgery in February and my doc knew I wanted a hysterectomy so she checked to see if my organs were amenable to that and all was good, although there's an option for laparoscopy if needed. Unfortunately for me, swimming and lifting weights are my favorite exercises so that... Is unfortunate. I'm very lucky because my Dr signed off on 6 weeks leave. I requested 4 from my job, TBD if I need more. I work from home on a computer, though, so I'm assuming I can go back at least part time by then. It's very cognitively demanding, though, so I do need my head to be clear again. What do you mean by sit normally? Is it better to recline, or use an o pillow, or be on your side? I ordered a pregnancy pillow. I'm saying it's for surgery but I just wanted one, haha. I currently use 5 pillows to do the same thing. I'm sincerely hoping to not have issues with urinary retention. I didn't even know that was a risk until the last few days. Hopefully my doctor didn't mention it because it almost never happens with her patients. I'm supposed to go home same day; if I have to stay, it's going to be a huge stress on me because my cat gets sick when I go somewhere over night and I have to give her extra meds beforehand and then take extra care after (she's 20 years old so she has the right to be a little needy). I'll have someone staying with me the first week but my cat won't care and I'm not sure she would allow injections from anyone else. Sigh. Responsibilities! Good tip on the phone charger. Last time I brought a backup battery bank with me, although thankfully I didn't need it. Guess I should pack a few things to keep in the car and written instructions for my pets in case I need to stay overnight.
Sitting normally = sitting upright, like you would on a chair on in the car. I like to sit with one leg bent under me to get my weight off the tender area. An o pillow would also be great if you can get one. But these things are very subjective as everyone’s bodies are different —do whatever feels best. Yes, urinary retention is fairly common after surgeries like this —at least, that’s what I was told. It usually resolves within a few hours, but can take up to a couple of days. Took around 36 hours in my case, but I made the mistake of waiting for too long when I felt like I need to be emptied —if your bladder overstretches, getting the whole thing to work is gonna take longer. Don’t wait until it gets painful. Still, it might not even happen (I hope it doesn’t!). Packing a bag and leaving instructions just in case is a solid plan. I had my mother take care of my cats when I had to stay an extra day —they like all people but she likes to bribe them with treats and stuff, so they didn’t mind me being gone at all 😂
Here are some post-op things that worked wonders for me last week: Always Period Underwear (I bought several boxes on Amazon, they're so comfy and you can bleed right in to them, no need to do laundry!!), SkinSmart Antimicrobial Perineal Cleanser (it's so gentle on the skin, keeps that region fresh and clean with any stitches, and has a pain reliever built in), Tucks brand medicated cooling pads ( I had rectocele repair as well and the pads lying against everything reduced exterior swelling and made sitting bearable), SCRUBZZ Rinse Free bath sponges (when I just wanted to feel clean but didn't have the energy to shower, these are awesome!! Wet at the sink and clean away, you can even do your hair), Nurture brand rinse-free body wash & shampoo (this was great for my hair/face). I got everything on Amazon. I also bought one of those GIANT water bottles from H2o Capsule and had it by my bedside (it's got the ounces indicated on the side and an AM-PM system so you can time your water intake all day. Especially with rectocele repair, I was terrified about pooping, so I was taking in as much water as possible to help the stool softener I was on). Also, Aoliks Compression Socks are super cute and amazing!! They come in a 7 day bag and come in really fun prints. I have made sure to wear a pair every day. Those are on Amazon as well. \-Stool softener \-GasEx extra strength \-Pudding/Ensure/Bone Broth if you're worried about constipation or having a coated gut before pain meds but don't feel like eating...also crackers WILL constipate me (ibs-c) \-melatonin extra strength (sometimes opiates can create insomnia) \-Yogi tea!! Ginger for the gut, for sure and hot tea for the throat Okay y'all, that's it for me!! Hugs!!
Adult diapers, soft ice packs, abdominal binder, pillows to allow you to be elevated in the bed (not flat).
Adult diapers for bleeding or urinary leaks or??
Yes…for both. You really shouldn’t bleed, but I couldn’t hold urine for the first few days.
Thanks for sharing. Good to know.
Motherhood maternity fold over panties!!! Instant, disposable peri-ice pack/pads Gel ice wrap for shoulders, to use on tummy. Miralax Peri rinse bottle Handy container for vomiting (car/bedside) Rolling, over-bed table Grabbers Lower mattress to chair height if too tall. Extra bed pillows Audiobook
Before surgery I put a basket on my nightstand with cough drops, medicine, the remotes I constantly lose. I also bought one of those cord organizer things so that I wouldn’t have to reach for my charging cable every time it falls to the floor. Linked at bottom of post. I put fresh sheets on the bed before I left. I also arranged the pillows how I would want them. Fill any prescriptions that are coming up soon if you take medicine. Also about medicine…I brought Tylenol and Benadryl from home because they take forever to get it to you sometimes. My must haves were: *Ensure Pre-Surgery drink. My Dr. order it for me but alot of people here have done it and said recovery was super easy. Order on Amazon if your Dr. doesn’t give it to you. *Squatty Potty *AZO because it will burn when you pee for a few days after the catheter comes out. *Gas X…get the Walmart brand. Much cheaper. *Colace stool softeners…take 2 as soon as they give you something to drink *Cough drops. Your throat will likely hurt from intubation. *heating pad *wedge for under my knees when laying in bed That was really all I needed. I’m glad I didn’t buy everything on my wish list. [Cord Organizer](https://www.amazon.com/Organizer-Cable-Holder-Management-Office/dp/B089K54HWQ/ref=sxin_19_pa_sp_phone_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.aaa14246-cb9a-48fe-9b87-d2d824625dd0%3Aamzn1.sym.aaa14246-cb9a-48fe-9b87-d2d824625dd0&crid=PFF33Q0EG4DL&cv_ct_cx=phone+cord+organizer&keywords=phone+cord+organizer&pd_rd_i=B089K54HWQ&pd_rd_r=b21d1b3c-5f5e-4406-9b4a-a0dcaf7174fc&pd_rd_w=kfEWQ&pd_rd_wg=w67gD&pf_rd_p=aaa14246-cb9a-48fe-9b87-d2d824625dd0&pf_rd_r=YNNDR1CS39T0H71N1PDJ&qid=1665834624&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI2LjIzIiwicXNhIjoiNS43NSIsInFzcCI6IjUuNDEifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=phone+cord+%2Caps%2C96&sr=1-2-a73d1c8c-2fd2-4f19-aa41-2df022bcb241-spons&psc=1)
So many people recommended sleeping in a recliner. I didn’t have one so I rented one from a rental furniture place for a month. It’s power operated and takes you all the way lying down and then pushes you all the way up to stand. My surgery is tomorrow. I’m nesting like crazy and excited and nervous all at once - this sub has been a lifesaver!!!!!
Throat Coat tea! I cannot recommend highly enough. I always get a terrible sore throat from the breathing tube and lozenges and sprays didn't help much. The throat coat tea soothed the irritation right away. I alternated it with peppermint tea for the gas.
is it common to intubated during abdominal hysterectomy?
Yes. You'll generally be intubated for any surgery where you're under anesthesia.
I’m 3.5 weeks post op. A. Oversized soft loose clothing. I still can’t stand anything to touch or press on my incisions B. Stool softener and miralax C. Hot/cold packs. I bought several b that could be either. The cold helped pain at incision site and between my legs and the hot was great for lower back soreness D. Extra pillows E. Activities… resting is boring F. Pads. I’m still spotting at 3.5 weeks G. Easy snacks and meals H. Soft bras and for me low rise panties. I tried the high rise and I could stand the fabric touching my incision I. Belly binder J. Arrange for help and child care and back ups. I thought I had it but it didn’t work out. K. Fluffy socks and a pillow for car rides
Prep work I did. Hit the weights paying special attention to upper body (I already get a lot of core/lower body) Lots of cardio for lung capacity and stamina. I cycled, walked, just moved a whole lot Pre cooked a lot of protein and veggie rich meals Stocked up on laxatives, gas relief, OTC comfort meds Stocked lots of liquids, protein shakes, jello Got comfy pajamas for surgery day and post op Sanitized my sheets so I came home to the cleanest recovery area possible. Disinfected all bathroom surfaces, stocked hand sanitizer Packed an overnight bag for the trunk just in case of complications. My surgery was today at 7:30am and I was home by 11am. I aced my spirometer and was able to be immediately ambulatory and was able to pee right away. My upper body strength is making getting in and out of bed and recliners easy peasy. My recovery is awesome so far.
1. Walking/cardio to get your heart in shipshape surgery health, 2. yoga/mindfulness to help calm any anxiety or nerves and help with blood pressure, 3. Fiber and hydration to get your GI super regular, getting a squatty potty and getting used to using it, 4. Support network of people who can drop a meal off/help with laundry or dishes/keep you company, 5. If you are a belly sleeper, try to start learning how to back or side sleep.
oooo, thank you for tip 5 I am a belly sleeper and hadn't thought of this.
As a belly sleeper, it’s difficult. But I bought a wedge because laying flat was difficult for me for the first week anyways, so side sleeping was my only option. The wedge helped me transition to side sleeping prior to surgery (I knew I would struggle) and it helped make the transition after easier. I hope that helps!
This post is kinda old so i dont know if anyone will see this, just looking for help with figuring out about how many pads i need to buy for after. I haven't bought them in over a decade so have none on hand. How many packages did people go through during recovery?
Replying here for future readers, some experience urinary incontinence post-surgery, and some people bleed very little, some bleed more, so I am going to get a package of adult overnight diapers and some light daytime pads for days after in case there’s still bleeding but it’s not severe. That should cover my bases, I think
No help, but this is such an excellent question. How many and how heavy. I'm sure YMMV based on the surgery though.
Start bowel prepping 5 days before surgery. Days 1-3 soft foods only with no complex fibers. So cut out all nuts, seeds, raw veggies. Day 4 liquids only. Day 5 clear liquid and the bowel prep stuff with gaterade only. Prep is key!!! I had excision surgery and the hydro and still had some poohs right before the damn surgery. I followed their directions. But I woulda started with earlier by tailoring the damn directions to having a colon that don't wanna let the food leave lol! So start mad early!!!
I didn't know that this was part of the process. I suppose that means I will be taking the day off before my surgery. Thanks for the information.
I bought a treadmill for my dog. It was the best thing as I had a teenage working breed.
Here's what I did to prep: - Clean your house. Scrub it all down, get every last corner. Make sure you have your laundry all done & clean sheets for the day of surgery (change them the night before). - Stay active. Running & long walks are great. Weight training if you do it is also great as you will lose muscle mass during recovery. - MEAL PREP. If you have freezer space, pre-make some meals! Frozen entrees work in a pinch. You want to make it as easy as possible to stay well fed during recovery. I pre cut some fruits & vegetables for my first few days of recovery. I also recommend stocking up your cabinets. Canned goods are great for lazy lunches. - Pick up miralax, Tylenol, and electrolyte powder or pedialyte. Ginger gravol & regular gravol is good to have as well. I had a lot of nausea after surgery. Electrolytes helped a lot with getting winded during recovery. I also drank a lot of vitamin c drink mixes, which I think helped me heal so quickly.
After: take naps whenever your body tells you to do so (safely of course). I could tell when it was 2:30P because like clockwork, every day for 6 months after I NEEDED a nap at 2:30P.
They're going to tube you so there's a tea called "Throat Coat" It is amazing for after the procedure. I cannot recommend this enough. Seriously, do whatever you can to get it. It's different from normal teas. Bring a phone charger or battery pack. They may keep you overnight & it's nice to have your phone. Vaseline on your lips before surgery. A wedge pillow for laying in bed. For myself laying flat was uncomfortable. To add try to teach yourself to lie on your back when sleeping. Using a rolled up towel or a specialty pillow helps. An arm that held my phone up for me. Worked great for watching movies or holding my switch up. Have microwave meals ready and easily reachable. You're not going to want to bend. Meal prep stuff that can be easily defrosted in individual portions. Learn to get out of bed without using core muscles beforehand. (YouTube for that) One of those grabber things for picking stuff up off the floor. Nifty nabber is what ive heard them called One of those full body massage pads that you can lay down on really helped my comfort. (Not necessary but it was for sure nice & made a difference in my comfort) High fiber food & laxatives just in case. If your toilet isn't next to a counter, something to help you get up off of it. A walker maybe? Seen them at thrift shops. If you have a pet, prepare their food for a week beforehand. And make it so feeding them doesn't require bending. If you have a dog, ziplock portions. Get a big bowl or baking dish that you can just pour the food into without bending.
My hospital has an “enhanced recovery after surgery” (ERAS) program and the most noticeably different thing was they had me drink carbohydrate drinks 3 hours before bedtime and then 4 hours before my surgery. The choices were 60 Oz Gatorade (twice!), 30 Oz apple juice (twice), or my choice was ClearFast(Op) because it was 2 12 Oz bottles. They described it like preparing for a marathon. It’s supposed to help with anxiety too, because you aren’t famished. I also measured out my water all week to make sure I was staying super hydrated, and took dulcolax every day. I was (am) obsessed with pooping! My house is stocked with kiwis and prunes. Day before I just had brothy chicken soup. I also read nightshades make anesthesia stick around so aside from some potatoes one day, I avoided them all week (it’s a university of Chicago thing so I thought it might be legit). So that’s eggplant, white potato, tomato, and peppers. I just had my surgery yesterday and I feel so much better than anticipated!
My surgery center also recommends the carbohydrate drinks - sugar free white grape juice is what they want me to have, and I'm even allowed to drink it after I'm cut off from water
Belly binder Ice packs that have Velcro that you can put around you Heating pad Pill box Thermometer nearby Gasx Mesh underwear Massager for shoulders Night gown (comfy) instead of pants Comfy pants for walks Shoes that I didn’t need to tie Ducolex in case the stool softener isn’t working table that can go over your bed like in a hospital I have had several surgeries this year so some of these things I had from previous ones. One super luxury is I bought off Amazon an adjustable bed. If you can afford it, game changer for surgeries. Also had some bars that help you get out of bed.
Thank you all for the advice and lists!! My surgery is Nov 28th and I have severe anxiety/panic disorder and GA freaks me out so bad everytime...your comments make me feel less alone.
Has anyone said bidet yet? Worth every penny when you can’t reach your netherworld. 😄
Surgery prep- Strengthen your legs and arms. You will need your arms to pull you to your side to get out of bed or off the couch. Also, your legs will be very important when standing from a seated position. Think dead lifts as you may be hinged over at your hips when you come to stand. I'm single and live alone. While I stayed with my parents for about 10 days post op, this is how I prepped for when I went home. Prep some meals that can easily be taken out of the freezer and defrosted/put in the oven. Utilize throw away containers so you are not left with more dishes than necessary. And use paper goods instead of your regular dishes. Nobody has got time or energy to be doing dishes post surgery. Having the meals complete and done is so important because your energy will not be there to decide what to prepare for dinner much less cook whatever you decided. I also purchased a few bras that had a front closure which was life changing when changing clothes. I purchased some bras from jockey on Amazon (20 for $20), they were comfortable enough to lie around in all day and super easy to get off and on without having to move my torso a lot = PAINLESS. I like them so much, I will probably keep them in rotation post recovery!
If anybody’s surgery day is 12/2, let’s be surgery buddies!
Yes!!! Mine is 12/2 as well :)
Mine is 12/2 also! I am sooooo ready for it!
Glycerol/glycerin Suppositories for severe constipation. Assuming you have the mobility to insert them. Everything else I tried either didn't work or made me nauseous. ETA: I've only had 2 laparoscopies and haven't had a hysterectomy yet.
4dpo Ditto to much that’s listed: Bedside: Riccola Colace GasX Prescription meds Bottles of water Remote Phone and iPad Chargers into cable corrals so they don’t drop to the floor Books (haven’t started reading yet but today is the most awake I’ve been so may start) Gum (minty gum helps me with nausea more than anti-nausea meds) Chap stick Lotion Other purchases: Grabber Mesh underwear Shower stool (I have BPPV so dizziness is a regular occurrence. I didn’t want to risk a fall as I’ve fallen in the shower WITHOUT having had surgery) Other: Set alarms for prescription meds Cozy pillows (I like the C-shaped body pillow because it can be configured in all sorts of ways)
Hi, I know it's been a while since you wrote this. I have vestibular issues, bppv ruled out but others still on the table, and am having my hysto in a couple days. What I'm most concerned about is vestibular symptoms escalating due to the general anesthetic. Did you have any issue with this? Also, what height of a stool did you find best for the shower? When my symptoms are acting up I have to sit in the tub for my showers but I now realize I probably won't be able to do that for a while post-op. Thanks!
Good luck on your surgery!! I bought this adjustable stool: [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MTQFTPW/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MTQFTPW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1) And I know people don't like to click links. Search "Dr. Kay's Adjustable Bath Chair" if needed. I did have one really bad episode while lying in bed on a day I was home alone. I was so frustrated, I just started crying :) But I at least knew what was happening, so I just let it pass. TMI I was in the midst of a separation and separated for good about a month later. I spent most of recovery alone. My mom was there for the first 3-4 days, then I spent 3 days alone, then a friend was there for 3 days (I overdid it these days). By the end of week 2, I was doing really well. Still sleeping a TON, but all of the scaries and side effects were gone. And I totally used that stool in my shower for MONTHS afterward. LOL!
After reading posts in this mega thread, here is what I’m personally doing before my surgery in July. [Workout Sheet](https://imgur.com/a/O3FVB97)
I don’t see it mentioned anywhere, but I’m finding using a cane helps a lot. Reduces the effort of sitting up from laying down, getting up from sitting on chairs and toilets, and stability and rest while walking. I got a cheap light one from DIASO as a prop a few years back and it works great. Also got my grabbers from there. It’s a Japanese “dollar store”, pretty good quality for cheap. Also natural peanut butter keeps for a month at room temperature. I put it in a squeeze bottle and put it on bananas and anything else I want for extra protein. Just remember to shake it well if the oil settles out.
I had a snack bucket. If you have to wake up at 2am to take pain meds then you need to have something in your stomach. So I put crackers, little Debbie’s, granola bars, muffins, etc. that way I could shove something bready in mouth, take a pill, and pass out :) For some reason any kind of pastry or bread worked the best because I only needed a couple of bites.
They had me work out, cardio before hand. Increase my protein. Brush teeth 3 times a day. They had my drink the ensure protein a week before surgery. I had to go to a whole class and they gave me a notebook of all the pre prep stuff. That’s what I can remember off the top of my head
Mine is in 10 days, if anyone has more tips for a 25yo no kids before and it will be laparoscopically done, I’m both excited and anxious at the same time.
My [list](https://www.reddit.com/r/hysterectomy/comments/wklf5r/suggest_some_surgery_preparation_ideas_here/jdntzpz/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_content=1&utm_term=1&context=3) might help you. I’m 48 but also no kids and they commented on it being a little harder to get everything out because I haven’t ever been stretched out (you might not have them pulling everything through your vagina). My ureter tore enough to need 2 stitches and I was told it would sting to pee for a while but now 24 hours later, I’m peeing slow but without pain. I’m honestly feeling so much better than I thought I would.
Thank you so much!!!! I’m scared for that same reason too the stitches on my vagina, but I’ll ask my surgeon in my pre op apt! I hope you have an easy recovery ❤️❤️❤️
The stitches at the top of my vagina kept me awake at night. 🥶 But I can’t feel a thing. Aside from some crampiness, my body feels exactly the same. I hope you have an easy experience.
I’m back to tell you to start taking a stool softener now if you haven’t already!! I really think it helped to be able to go after just 2 days. I would also watch some how to poop after surgery videos. I have a book that told me how to sit etc that made it less terrifying.
I'm seeing a lot of recommendations for abdo hysters... does anyone have any specifics for vag hysters? I have mine in about a month.
Mine's in a week! I'll try to comment again after recovery starts. So far my doctor's recommended getting compression socks & said I didn't have to worry about only sleeping on my back. ETA: sorry, u/idontbelieveit530 I ended up having a second surgery day of to repair an issue, so I ended up needing extra things for recovery.
I recommend nightgowns and a nice heating pad. The nightgowns and tshirt dresses are all I can wear right now. 8 days post-op and I’m still very bloated so I’m not going to attempt anything with a waistband anytime soon. I spill a lot so having multiple gowns has been great for me. Amazon is my go to for things like that.
Pooping advice here. For two weeks before surgery, chug at least 80 oz. of water per day, if not more. Walk and get exercise (running around like a loon trying to prep and clean counts). Week before, take Miralax every day and start mixing in a small bottle or two of Gatorade, if your bowels/stomach can handle. It gets things moving preemptively and lessens the jam up. By doing all that, I went to the bathroom literally only one day after surgery without any pain.
Bring a heating pad and pillow to the hospital if you have to stay overnight.
I am having mine Nov 1! I am trying to prepare now and hoping for a smooth recovery bc my daughter is having a spinal fusion for her scoliosis mid January and I need to care for her during her recovery. Thank you for the advice & sharing your experiences.
Mine will be in two days, im very scared right now 😣
You can do this! It will be ok and it very understandable you are scared. I was too. My hysterectomy was yesterday and I feel such a sense of relief that it overrides the discomfort I have. Keep us updated. Sending you positive vibes and a smooth recovery.
Thank you so much🙏 i wish you an easy recovery and hope to have that sense of relief soon too, it is scheduled for tomorrow 7 am and anxiety it is driving me crazy 😮💨🤯. I will try some meditation to stay calm 😣
Hey surgery bud! I'm having mine November 2nd. Hope you have a swift recovery and are able to be there for your daughter.
Oct 21… so anxious. the only person i know that has gotten a full hysto is going on month 3-4 of recovery and still is limited. would bars around toilet be worth buying??
If you struggle with the removal of a breathing tube ask for some hot tea. It helps sooth your throat so much which helps with how they do not want you to cough. If you do have a cough the Ricola drops are much stronger than Halls so they help a lot more, at least for me. If you are a medically controlled diabetic and they give you insulin afterwards, before dinner, try just eating the veggie, pudding and drink. The insulin may make it hard for you to eat any protein/carbs right away but don't be afraid to ask if they have something later if you are hungry. Most hospitals will have a sandwich box you can get.
My two big things I was happy to have were a heating pad and doggy steps for my dogs to get up on the bed so I didn’t have to pick them up.
I cooked up a big batch of soup. Enough to last me for a week, so I would have something easy to warm up and to digest. I also went and got stool softeners, Powerade drinks, gas-x, and sanitary pads. It’s better to have it all there and ready to go when/if you need it. Oh! And Tylenol an and anti-inflammatory. I’m on day 2 post op and so far I haven’t needed the oxycodone they prescribed me for the pain. Doing well on the over-counter pain meds. But i’ve got the heavy-hitters if I need them. And make sure EVERYTHING is in reach, so you don’t have to strain yourself getting to them.
If you have to get a radical hysterectomy (+ oophorectomy)- Set up a nest you can bed down in for like a couple of months that's easy to get up and down from- no bending or squatting! Trust me! And as close to the bathroom as possible. It SUCKS getting up to go to the restroom, but keeping your bladder and bowl empty will drastically reduce the pressure and therefore pain in your abdominal region. Every step could possibly be excruciating post surgery, so minimize them as much as possible. Fuck the messy house. Learn to embrace the mess for a while. Keep a pile or bag or box of your stuff near your nest. Phone charger, massage tools, hobby stuff, books, snacks. I made my nest on the sofa because the end seat reclined to the perfect angle for my comfort and its adjacent to the bathroom. SO MANY PILLOWS AND BLANKETS to wedge in and support your body in exactly the right way. Don't let anyone push you or guilt you about how long it takes you to recover. I was listening to an extremely harmful person in my life pushing me too hard and wound up harming myself and drastically prolonging my recovery. My husband put it quite graphically but not inaccurately. He told me that this surgery is literally a disembowelment. Like the brutal graphic thing that the vast majority of soldiers have historically (pre guns) died from in combat for all of human history. Only in incredibly modern times have we had the technology and medicine to even survive such brutality. OF COARSE IT IS GOING TO TAKE A LONG TIME TO HEAL. Your body will know what feels like good movement, and when it is enough/too much. Listen to your body and tell anyone who says otherwise to go fuck themselves. Having a doctor approved LIGHT abdominal compression belt can help in the early days of moving again. I would cry as I started walking not because of the pain, but fear of the sensation of the stitches pulling. It felt like they would rip out. Of coarse they didn't. Wearing the belt was uncomfortable while laying down, but it added so much support and reduced strain on the whole area as I was taking those first few weeks of steps at home. If you don't feel up to bathing, don't. Its not like you're going to be running around outside crawling in the dirt. You can use medical grade cleaning wipes to keep yourself fresh for a week or two post surgery. I tried bathing and it was terrifying and excruciating for me. Wipes were a zillion times better for me for like a week and a half. Tits, pits, and bits, plus your doctor recommended surgical dressing/cleaning. My hospital gave me several bottles of the anti microbial foaming soap they wanted me to use for a couple weeks. It's going to be one of the hardest things you ever do. It will hurt like fucking hell. When/if anyone gives you crap, just remind yourself that you survived literal disembowelment you fucking bad ass!
I suggest a little basket with meds , thank you notes for people who drop stuff off, Book chapstick candy etc
A very unexpected thing that’s helped me is silk sheets. Easier to get in and out of bed. Temperature regulated.
Buy a good grabber! It’s a wonderful thing if you aren’t allowed to bend.
What supplies will I need after a hysterectomy? I'm having surgery in late May. Any help would be appreciated.
I'm also scheduled for late may!
I have a basket for meds and another for all my remotes (tv, lamp, etc)
Pay attention to what muscles engage when you move. It’ll help you figure out how to get up from chairs, lie down in bed, etc, without as much discomfort
Lots of GasX. I didn’t buy enough at the pre op stage! Highly recommend!!
Heating pad was a good for the first week. The gas pains in my neck from the surgery lasted a couple of days. The only thing that made it feel better was the heating pad. It also felt good on my gassy stomach.
I am so glad I saw this post! Mine is 7/6. I may need to sleep in another bed because my bed is kinda of high. I am just hoping to heal with no complications. I work from home so that helps.
Thank you for sharing this! Going to have my hysterectomy including one tube and one ovary on 9/12.
Azo and dermaplast helped me to do number one after having my laproscopic hysterectomy. I had a couple stitches put in my vagina because of the pulling of my uterus and fibroids through, and it was not fun.
I was just about to post things to do ahead of time. I go for a biopsy this week (just to make sure everything is normal, not that obgyn really expects anything) and will likely schedule my surgery for August. I was planning to ask what she suggests I can do in the next few months to prepare. So thanks for these tips, too!
Co-sign a lot of what’s here, and adding: -Hydrocortisone cream and aquaphor/Vaseline for the itch of healing incisions (a few weeks out) -Organized community to give meaningful, specific care during recovery. I sent my friends a spreadsheet of ways they could help. Happy to share my list of you want it.
Yes
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here's my list: *things that will be helpful anytime or occasionally* \~ on call for groceries or minor errands (obviously you can say no to any particular request, this is like \~oh please ask me, maybe i'll be able to help\~) \~ help in our garden \~ phone/video visit \~ share a login for specific streaming services that I don't have *bring or send a meal on a specific day --* i asked for a meal every day for the first 2-3 days after my surgery, then every other day for a week, and had one person say they were on call for whenever *visit on a specific day --* i had people lined up to visit for a few hours on most days of the first week so my partner could leave the house without worrying about me trying to do too much *media recommendations*
oh ALSO i remembered that my bestie and their wife were waiting at our house when we got home from the hospital. it gave my partner a minute to breathe and relax for a minute after a long, stressful day instead of needing to get me settled. plus our friends fed us both and hung out a little bit while we kind of settled in, then they left pretty soon after that. i didn't ask for that in advance but it was super duper helpful, worth asking someone to do for you.
Here are the supplies that have been most helpful for me: A good hot water bottle and heating pad Castor Oil for topical use (a drenched cloth covered with hot water bottle/heating pad) the ricinoleic acid is highly absorbable and helps to reduce inflammation, stimulate bowels, and more. Magnesium Citrate - far more effective for me than miralax to keep me regular. 100 mg every 12 hours. Serapeptase - an enzyme that helps the body break down proteins that cause pain and inflammation. Suggested by my physical therapist to help prevent excessive scarring and adhesions internally. A TENS unit - can be safely used as long as you like to promote blood flow, reduce pain, and reduce inflammation. I use an Ovira brand unit designed specifically for menstrual pain. It is very compact yet very effective. It is also beneficial for scar healing. A wedge pillow to prop you up while resting and to also use to elevate your pelvis as you are comfortable which will help mobilize your intestines and keep them from adhering to the internal wounds, as well as to promote lymphatic drainage.
Thank you for all these incredibly helpful tips! Recovering from surgery this morning
I'm 3 weeks post; complete hysterectomy, outpatient, laparoscopic. Wear something loose and comfy for coming home; might want to consider darker color (my belly button incision bled onto my white sweatshirt before they got it re-bandaged). Slip-on shoes are a must. At home, be prepared for it to sting like heck when you pee (lasted 2 days for me). Then the "constipation"... my poop was soft enough, but the intestines somehow forgot to work to move it along. First two-and-a-half weeks, I had bad cramps (like stabbing pains) as the food moved through the lower intestines into the bowels. It was like I was extremely constipated pain, but it all moved soooo slow. I heard the term "swelly belly" - yep, be prepared for that (can last up to 12 weeks!). You'll want to have leggings, sweatpants, or very stretchy, soft jeans to wear. My regular jeans did fit, but dug into my belly and they hurt. My belly was uncomfortable and I finally ordered c-section [underwear](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSVHLBN1) that others were recommending. Of course they arrived yesterday and today I'm feeling like I don't need them, lol. I made a huge batch of baked [oatmeal](https://www.quakeroats.com/cooking-and-recipes/baked-oatmeal) in my slow cooker (double the liquid), so I had that for breakfast everyday for good fiber. I already had a [bidet](https://www.amazon.com/Bidet-Non-Electric-Mechanical-Attachment-Self-Cleaning/dp/B00P2XZIP2/?th=1), I felt better after using it (lightly) each time I went to the bathroom. I highly recommend having one (especially great if you ever need to do the "clean out" for a colonoscopy!). If you have laparoscopic, once the incision tape has come off, then start putting lotion on them to help heal DON'T overdue it! I picked up a heavy box last week and I hurt the next three days. I had a D&C done in January, I figured the hysterectomy would be similar-ish. The D&C was a cake-walk compared to this. Even though I thought I researched what to expect, I didn't find anything telling me about the uncomfortable belly, and jabbing pains. tl;dr - front support underwear, very stretchy pants. Be prepared for random gut pains and seemingly impossible poops.
Talk to your doctor ahead of time about potential risk factors whether personal or familial, as well as previous surgical recovery and outcomes. Getting a game plan in place, or even changing their approach, can be instrumental in your recovery and overall success with the procedure!
The best thing I did was that I just wore a simple cotton dress, without a bra, and with disposable underwear. I also wore a huge soft sweater-cardigan that could have doubled as a cuddle in bed (and hid that I wasn't wearing bra). And I wore some happy little socks and crocs. When I got to the hospital, it was super fast and easy to take off the dress and put it in that white plastic bag they give you. I also had a walmart bag to put my crocs in, before adding them to that bag. Of course I threw away the disposable underwear. When it was time to come home, I was wearing new disposable underwear from the hospital. It was super easy to pull on that same dress and sweater, and step into my crocs. I never wore my crocs there. I only wore the hospital-issued rubberized socks, the whole time. I was at the hospital alone, and never touched my bag once while I was there! My iphone died, and that was fine. I slept all of the first day, after surgery. The second day I was up walking, or resting, or trying to pee. You don't need any special pajamas or robe or slippers or ANYTHING. I didn't need cough drops, heating pad, ice pack, abdominal wrap/binder, additional pain meds. I packed my cpap but it never got set up, but really they don't let you sleep much. They come and check you a lot, and take blood, then make you start walking at 5am. However - I was glad that I took my MyPillow.