Hysterectomy, any experiences and advice welcome.

[moodydonkey]

Hello everyone,

I found out yesterday I will need this op (not emergency) but due to having unsuccessful treatment for nearly three years for pre cancerous cells.

I'm not worried about the op, I know it's the best thing for me. Only trouble is I have to drive 50 miles each day to get my daughter to school and the recovery time is 6 weeks. My family will help thankfully but I feel bad forcing soo much on them.

And I'm scared to be honest, I'm 34 and my girls are 12 and 11 and I know I don't want more kids but I don't know anyone that's gone through this and I don't know what to expect.

Head in a muddle at the moment really. Anyone's thoughts would be appreciated, thankyou in advance.

[Oldernotwiser]

I had a hysterectomy 15 years ago and I found the recovery time less than had been suggested, although I didn't drive then. Take it very quietly for maybe a week when you come out of hospital and then start rebuilding your stamina.

I can't advise you on the driving aspect but will your recovery time cover any of the school holidays, as this would obviously help?

[moodydonkey]

Thanks ONW, I have 2 girls in different high schools. DD2 is in catchment and gets the bus just up the road, DD1 is at school where we used to live. Have tried but not managed to get DD1 into the local school but they don't have room. Am hoping (probably daft) but consultant said she will help in an appeal that I need DD1 to have transport to the same school so I can have the op.

Wish I could concentrate on me other than schools but there it is.

And I guess that is my main rant! Schools not me, how daft.

Glad you recovered well, thankyou for replying I very much appreciate it. I hope I do as well.

[Errata]

My experience of gong 'ex directory' is the same as ONW's, and mine was done for the same reason that you've been recommended to have a hysterectomy.
It's really not that much different to the removal of an appendix - same approach (through the sun roof) and more or less the same size piece of 'kit' (if the appendix is inflamed).
I was driving and back at work part time after four weeks, but that was very much a personal choice and doesn't mean that everyone can do it.
Good luck - hope it all goes well with you.

[Marcheline]

This thread may also help, another lady was asking about this recently http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=1943507&highlight=hysterectomy

[patchwork cat]

OK there are a couple of procedures where you can drive as soon as you feel able - they are LSH, laparoscopic assisted hysterectomy. http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/forums/ might help. The laparascopic hysterectomy is not available everywhere, but it may be near you, ask around. I originally started down the route of hysterectomy a year ago and am still trying to find my solution -my situation is benign, but had the same concerns about driving and the impact on my kids.

I found a consultant who wanted to do a laprascopic hysterectomy, but he was hyster happy! and I am not sure it is the only answer for me, different in your case, ofcourse. all the best.

[Bebsie]

Hi moodydonkey, well done for posting! I also have to have a hysterectomy and am having it done on the 30/10 - I was in a state but have calmed down and relaxed about it. I found a fantastic site http://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/search.php?searchid=1289792 have a little read and you will find all your answers there.

Good luck - hope to see you the hystersisters site!