To Whom It May Concern,
10 days after hysterctomy, I have only one major regret. A regret that I believe many women have but are afraid to share publically. I am not ashamed to say that I have failed my body.
I imagined my life after hysterectomy being a bit painful for a few days (2-3) then back to normal. I thought, the strong business woman that I am, that I would be just fine to be back working within a few days to a week. I would put the pain pills away, get back at my desk and while slower for a few days, I would be back to normal in no time.
I was wrong. I was 100% wrong. I was stupid. I was prideful. I was just downright idiotic believing that I was better than the stereotype and could bounce right back. I thought that since I really bounced back fast after my back surgery last year, this would be no big deal. A day or two of rest and pain meds, then back to work on day 3 or 4. Yeah, I tried that, and here I am on day 10 pretty miserable.
I do feel better. I do not regret this surgery at all. In fact, I can’t even say it is tough to recover from. I just have to admit that I regret trying to recover too fast. I regret not caring for my body better. I simply tried to speed up a natural process to suit my “needs”. Folks, it doesn’t work that way.
After Hysterectomy I Regret Not Caring For My Body Better
I am discovering that I truly did move and bend and twist and overdo it a lot the first week. On day 10, I am laying here in bed fighting the tears because I know I have to take a pain pill to just be able to relax. I didn’t imagine this simple “outpatient” surgery could leave me so completely drained. Let alone hurting so deeply for so long. On day 3 I felt a bit of a tug around my incisions but otherwise felt pretty “normal”. I really thought the pain was gone and I was good to go. So, I got to work. I did some client work. I worked on some things for this site. I stood and helped my Beau make soup. I lounged a lot, but I wasn’t as slow or careful as I should have been, and now here I am back to the point of being in pain when the pain should be gone.
No, this isn’t the worst pain I have ever felt, but it is the most exhausting thing I have ever undergone. I hurt. A deep ache in my abdomen that is expected and I can handle with some ibuprofen or on the worst days/times a pain pill. My 3 incisions from surgery are mostly healed. They itch, as is normal in healing, but otherwise are not a problem. It’s just that my body is kind of in shock. This isn’t just a little surgery. Just because it was outpatient for me, doesn’t mean it is just a minor thing. Frankly, I see why so many doctors have been making my friends who are going through this stay 24-48 hours in the hospital. Your body has a lot of healing to do after hysterectomy. A lot. Seriously, if you take nothing else from this – remember that your body has to heal inside – not just outside.
Not only did I have surgery, I had organs removed from my body. She removed organs that control my hormones. Hormones that affect my emotions, my physical reactions to many things, my temperature, my ability to burn fat, the way my hair grows, just so many pieces of who I am. She removed my way of giving life to another human being. She removed the last piece of my sons from my body. For me, knowing that I no longer hold the place I carried my sons was a lot more emotional than I expected. She removed the entrance to my womb and sewed my body back together to create a seal that will keep my bowels and bladder inside where they should be instead of prolapsed out of my vagina. Yes, it’s a yucky thing to think of but it can happen. She, with the skill of her hands, removed something that had turned bad inside my body and then sewed me back together in a way that will leave me whole and healthy.
After hysterectomy, I realize that when you remove organs, your body has to adjust to them not being there. It’s not like clipping a fingernail or cutting your hair. This is, still, no matter how short your hospital stay, a majorly invasive surgery. Not only does my body have to adjust to the loss of part of what makes it me, it has to recover from the effects of the anesthetic used. It has to overcome the pain, fight off infection, and begin the process of healing and letting those sutures stay put to keep everything in place.
My doctor warned me. She told me, as I sat across from her signing the papers to allow her to take my uterus, ovaries, and cervix in hopes of a better and healthier life in the long run, she told me that I was to be a total couch potato that slept, took short walks, ate healthy foods, and slept some more for the first two weeks. She told me, that under no circumstances was I to go back to work before my post-op appointment at one month after surgery. I explained that I worked from home, online and it wasn’t like a regular outside the home job. She laughed and said, “Yes it is. Your body doesn’t know the difference between an office or your couch”.
She was right. So was my Beau. So was my mother-in-law. So was my Sister.
I didn’t expect this to be something that knocked me down for a few weeks, but it has. I believe that it is a surgery that is not tough to recover from if you follow directions and take things easy. That means, don’t be like me. Don’t overdo it. Don’t try to be super independent. Don’t act like you are better than others and can just overcome with the snap of your fingers.
Right now, I am laying in bed writing this. I feel the lull of the pain pill I took shortly before I begin writing clouding my brain. I know, that while I have clients I owe work to, my own site in need of work, and ultimately bills to pay, I am likely going to be asleep within the hour. Doing what I should have been doing the last 10 days. Letting my body heal properly after hysterectomy. So I can spend more days laughing, smiling and taking selfies with the Wee Child.
If you find yourself faced with choosing to have a hysterectomy, don’t hesitate to do so for you health. It is a great thing, and it can be easy to recover from. However, don’t follow my initial example. Do what your doctor says. Take it easy. Rest. Allow your body to heal after hysterectomy surgery.
jan says
im on the list here in the uk to have mine done u words have brought me two tears but i will take your advice and rest
Connie Wade says
Connie Wade
I am on day 6 and keep questioning why I am not feeling better. I read your article and I feel much better now about how I am feeling. I did work a few hours today from home and started feeling dizzy. It’s so hard to just rest when you know there are things to be done. I guess that is just the female inside us. Thank you for this. I will definitely follow it!
Tracey says
Hello,
I read your post 4 days after my hysterectomy. It made sense, I’m following Dr. Orders as well. No major house work, don’t lift anything more than 5lbs. Take it easy, ride the couch. 2nd week in, feeling better, I can do a small load of laundry,one piece at a time. Dishwasher same thing, go slow one dish at a time. The bathroom is messy, if I just take my time go slow, not strain I can clean. Day 10 Hubby and I go to Costco. He pushes the cart, I try not to grab heavy stuff, a box of grapes, not really heavy. Walked around stood in line, really nothing major. Day 11 woke up, feeling more tender than I have, go pee and now I’m bleeding. WTF! I really didn’t think what I was doing was at all strenuous, because my body is used to 10 times more than what I have been doing and I still over did it. So mad cause I read this post early, and I didn’t listen. I am a stubborn person and I thought I was really following orders. Ha! After a hysterectomy the couch should really be your only friend for at least 6 to 8 weeks as per what your Dr. Says. I am responding to this post because the author is right, we don’t really listen, we tend to think that we do, and then we really don’t relay our experience. Thank you for this post. I’m sorry I didn’t take it seriously when I first read it. Now I am too paying for it.
We need to listen to our bodies and obey. I hope recovery for you has been better. Thinking of you now. Take good care.
Tracey
Katie says
Thank you for sharing your story Tracey! I know I scoffed at what they said. I also saw other women going back to work so fast after hysterectomy and thought I was just weak. The reality is, our bodies know we need this time and rest. I hope your recovery continues to improve!
cheryl says
Thank both of you for your post and response. Let me start by sayin im a nurse so I really do know what I Should do just dont always do that.I’m post-op day 10 had a few set backs post-op fever and developed inflammation but the last 2 days not temp and felt good so carried some trash out and picked up my grand babies that I’ve missed being able to pick up and rock. Well today woke up with more pain and started spotting so today is going to be a day of laying on the couch doing nothing.
Donna says
HI today is my day 10 and i had a complete hysterectomy including omentum thru stomach. I have also learned to stop and just rest. Good luck hun.
Carol says
I just went through mine almost two weeks ago and I can relate. I have to admit that I have been 90% obedient to doctor’s instructions but the desire to go back to normal made force my husband to take my to a small supermarket….bang! The incisions started to hurt by the time we got to the register. What I couldn’t comprehend was the reason behind my back pain. It was so intense that reminded me of the day I was giving birth. I didn’t lift anything, I just walked around telling my husband what to put in the cart!!! Now, I’ve been having pain for three days, and that is affecting my emotions because I really want to feel better, but all I want to do now is cry ?
Katie says
I had back pain as well after surgery. I believe the additional stress on your back muscles since your abdominal wall has been disturbed may be a part of it. Definitely, watch it and call your doctor if it persists. Feel free to email me if you need to chat! [email protected]
Tracey says
I am so thankful i found this, ive been googling to find out if i should be feeling better 10 days after laprascopic hysterectomy. I am feeling less pain but i am still exhausted i feel alot of pressure in my abdomen still have a back ache, i went to the shops yesterday with my daughter and i ended up in alot of pain after that. My husband has been great he has done everything for me and i feel guilty which then turns to sadness i feel i should be doing more so i try to push myself then suffer the consequences after. I just dont want to feel this way. I know its going to take time to heal and after reading everyones posts i now realise i am going through a normal recovery.
Thankyou to all for sharing.
Claire Reid says
Hi, I am 8 days post OP and I am so bored but confused. This is my 7th gynaecologist op and I feel a lot better than I have done in the past but I am finding nights terribly. Sleeping on my back is horrid, yet sleeping on my side with a pillow is also uncomfortable as I feel gravity taking its toll.
I find all the information online so vague about recovery. I am a Pilates Instructor and I fend my posture changing as I try to protect my tummy area. They physio told me 12 weeks before I can demo in class. I am still in shock about this and despite people telling me to rest I am just finding it so hard. I am not used to sitting around, I have 2 young children who are very active and watching and missing their activities is hard going.
I was wondering if anyone else can tell me what exercises they were told to from 1 to 2 weeks apart from pelvic floor exercises. I don’t want to overdo it, but when is safe to start engaging the core?
Thanks and I hope you are properly recovering post op?
Claire
Julie says
Just had laparoscopic hysterectomy, and on day 3. I have been up and walking, but started to feel a “crampy-twinge” in my left side. Figured it was time to lay back down, and then i came across your experience. We want to feel invincible and keep our routine, but we have to take care of bodies for the long haul…so we can take care of the ones we love 🙂 I am taking the advice from all posts here and just going to make a dent in my couch! Hope all of you ladies are well!
Jayme Burke says
I completely get this. Day 9 and I too walked around the grocery store, picking up nothing and am in pain and am bleeding. Not excruciating pain by any means but enough to take an OTC med where I haven’t had any meds in 4 days. In total I walked just over 3000 steps. Pre surgery I was walking 12000 to 15000 so thought it would be no big deal. Ugh.
Good luck to everyone on their recovery and thank you for letting me know I am not alone in this journey.
Katrina says
Wow!!!! amazing that we women have to experience such things, whatever our age. I just had everything removed, at 66 and recently got married after so many years alone. Now what…well, my message would be to honor your body and be in touch with each emotion, internal feelings that for sure are telling us something. We must be sensitive and listen…it will take care of us if we take care of it.
Rona says
Thank you for this reality check. This is so accurate Katie. I needed to read this. Going to take better care of myself starting now…Good night! Will start with getting the rest I need. Instead of obsessing over other women’s experiences, I am going to focus on my own.
Brenda says
It’s 0300 and I just read your blog. I needed to read this. I am four days post surgery. I felt angry most of the day due to clients calling, employees with questions, etc. I felt “good enough” to answer questions and get work done. I’m here in the wee morning feeling poorly and regretting my decisions of the day.
I am going to honor my body! I’m going to give my body the time it deserves to heal.
Thank you for posting-
Amanda says
Hey! I just turned 35 and just had a robotic hysterectomy seven days ago. I just wanted to say your post was a super helpful reality check as I too have felt “wimpy” for laying around and have been tempted to do more than I should. Alright, not just tempted – I HAVE done more than I should. A life of chronic health problems and chronic pain has instilled in me a “cowgirl up” and “push through it” mentality – one that’s been more deeply engrained than I realized. Your post and all the comments have reinforced the messages I’ve been getting from my mom and doctors – rest, rest, rest. Me and Netflix have something serious going right now, and I guess it’s not a bad thing! Thanks for your candor and willingness to share. It’s given me peace about my own recovery process.
Kemajo says
Hello… I hope All is Well…. how are you? I find your comment very relative to me…. I had the procedure and had to come back 4 days later because of an infection. I have been in the hospital off and on for 10 days. I will like to know how you have progressed.
Trisha says
How long was your recovery?
Kate says
Thank you. At 7 days out, I mailed a package, returned some clothes to the mall, and almost made it through the grocery store when the room started to spin. I managed to get the food to the car and have others unpack it, but I have been paying for this at 10 days and now I am out of Percocet and discovered the backup pain meds (just a heavy dose of Ibprofen) makes my blood pressure spike and makes me start to black out if I am not lying down. Was expecting to be working out in the gym by now.
Katie says
Oh no! The gym is a long way away. Definitely follow what your doctor says and allow your body to heal!
Sparkle says
I’m on day ten. Today was my first day out. I drove. I left about 1:00 and didn’t back to about 5:00. I did a lot of waiting, which included sitting. I had chills, but I was hot. I wasn’t in pain. I moved very slow. I had people open the door for me. I will see how I feel in the morning. So, ready for the gym. I’m not going till I’m ready 🤕
Dina Rico says
I thought I would be move so much faster. 5 days post op abdominal hysterectomy. I just don’t feel right. Tired, chills, weak and pain.
Lynne says
Just had laproscopic hysterectomy been feeling fine until today 7 days in feeling nausea so decided to make sofa my best friend instead of trying to make myself get better quicker.
Katie says
Rest as much as possible! Get well quickly!
Karen says
I am at day 6 after robotic surgery. Spent 1 night in hospital. Went home at 4pm the following day. Felt pretty good. Asked my husband to care for me for 7 days. No conflict, nor discussing kid issues. On day 3 he started in talking about how our oldest son hadn’t done this or that. I engaged in yelling match. After 3 days time I ended up staying at a friend’s house. I’m now in a bad place, pain and fatigue. My message is make sure you are in a supportive, peaceful environment in order to heal physically and emotionally. Have tears as I’m write this.
Katie says
I am so very sorry you are in a bad place Karen. You will be in my thoughts over the coming days and weeks. Please put yourself first. Always.
Sandi says
It’s 5:30 AM and I am day 6 post robotic surgery. I had a full removal of everything plus a bladder lift. I’m having quite a bit of cramping since yesterday. I had the worst constipation at day 2 and felt awful! Day 3 was emotional, I cried all day .This has been the best post I have found . I’m lucky to have a husband who is so great at taking care of me and making sure I take care of myself.
The guilt we women go through sometimes When we focus on our own needs can be hard to take. Reading the comments from all of you who are wanting so badly to resume life is so identifiable . I have learned from you , it’s alright to do nothing . Self care is what we need to focus on so we can resume to the life we are used to.
I’m 57 and have younger women in my office who told me they returned to work 3 weeks after their surgery but I made it clear I am taking the entire 6 and now I am so happy I stood up and said I need that.
Our bodies have gone through so much, taking a few weeks to be kind to ourselves is what we deserve .
PW says
I am so glad I came across these posts. I have a laparoscopic hysterectomy scheduled for next Tuesday. I am 48 with no kids and have had a ton of problems leading up to this. Two weeks ago I had to have a blood transfusion because of my loss. I am ready for this to be over and know I will need to take it easy. Thanks for all the posts!
Cynthia Magsam says
I understand where every lady is coming from. I too am guilty of too much too soon. Im going through this completely alone. Kids are grown and gone and only 10 months into dating a gent after 22 yeaes of being widowed. Not only am I trying to keep up with the house but trying to juggle the finances. I recieved my last paycheck today until I go back to work. Percocet is almost gone. Things need done. I do a bit of tidying up and the sit forva bit. Im stubborn and scared Ill loose everything.
Dawn says
Thank you for your post! I wish I would have read it 7 days ago!! I have also overdone it and didn’t listen to everyone’s advice and I was doing good. Only a pain pill in late morning and maybe one late evening. Now I am hoping I have enough to last me as I went shopping today and feel as if my insides are coming out!!
Cheryl says
Thank you so much for posting this and everyone for your comments. I’m only five days in and so frustrated and impatient. This is just what I needed to read to help me do what I need to do…whether I like it or not.
Mary says
Thank you for writing this. 1 week Post-Op and searching for a “guide” on how I should be feeling. I cried through the whole article. We women are so harsh to ourselves. I posted your link on my fb page and sent it to my entire family to read— just to validate myself and my recovery. At times I just start shaking/shivering even though I’m not cold, I had said that I thought my body was in shock over losing parts. Felt good when I read your words to that effect. THANK YOU
Katie says
Oh Mary, take care of yourself!! It is so hard, and yes, we are so hard on ourselves. I hope the rest of your recovery is easier.
Amy says
I feel Like sharing it with my husband. Even if he read it he still would not understand just what I’m going through. I sound Whiny and weak but , I would love some support and empathy.
Kathy says
So glad I found this site. I am 6 days since hysterectomy and bladder sling surgery. I really thought I’d be up and out that feeling this tired was because I’m a wimp. Now I know it’s normal. I’ll just take my time to heal. Thank you everyone!
Mellissa says
I’m glad I came across this thread!
I have a partial hysterectomy and bladder sling surgery in 2 weeks.
Not going to have much help, so will need to constantly remind myself it’s ok! Also.. to prepare my husband!!
Thank you everyone for your openness.
I truly hope, I can actually chill. Fingers crossed!
Gail says
I am on days 5, same surgery as yours. My question is how do you feel by now? I mean I kinda feel good at times. I walk to mailbox an take a shower an feel as my day fool already. The pressure an mild dizziness is hard for me to over come. Thank you for yor feedback. God bless us women
Becky says
Thank you for this article. I am day 5 and feeling so frustrated that I’m still in pain and have to keep asking my kids and boyfriend to do everything. Started working some on day 3 but feel worse now than I did right after.
Kate C says
I thought I was crazy because I have also been searching post op hysterectomy. There is not much out there for abdominal hysterectomy. Almost everything I find is vaginal or laparoscopic. On the outside I look normal. Clean clothes on hair washed and blown dry. Two matching shoes. Ive even managed to drive to the post office. However, 16 days post total abdominal hysterectomy Im not sure how i should feel. Some days I feel great then as the day goes on I am so tired. To my family I look like good old mom, so I do my duties and cook dinner and throw in wash or make the bed, pull the weeds, empty the trash. I don”t really know what I should be doing. But, I do know that at the end of the day I am tired and in pain. I only take tylenol or motrin but the nagging pain is there. Am I an imposter? Should I just stay on the sofa? I know what I need to avoid doing, but I am so tired of waiting for someone else to do it. If only I could get past the tiredness
Kelly says
THANK YOU ALL!! THIS HAS BEEN AN EYE OPENER AN SO VERY HELPFUL IN SO MANY WAYS! LOVE AND HEALING TO ALL! 🙂
Shanda says
6 days post op of my lapo hysterectomy. I have been trying to take it easy. I am bored out of my mind and I feel like a burden to my husband. He of course doesn’t feel that way, but I have always been strong and independent. We have 3 dogs and they are 1,8 and 14. I let them out as my “excersize”. I also admit to doing 2 load’s of laundry and dishes…….. I can’t seem to help it. I have read people’s posts and I am scared to death I am hurting myself. I don’t know why it is so hard to give myself some time to heal correctly.
Suzette Miranda says
I had an abdominal hysterectomy in Aug. 1992. I have a big smiley face along my abdomen. A couple of months after i was feeling good and saw a line of ants going along the outside entrance of my house. I like watching ants and seeing where they go. I decided to bend over or squat down to see where they go and i felt a real bad pain. I had pulled some of my stitches. I had to go back to the hospital to fix it. I wanted to get well and return to normal too, and that day i learned i cannot always do what i want to when i have surgery. I am older now and have had other kinds of surgeries and i make sure i do not overdo it. I enjoyed reading everyone’s words.
Lee says
5th week after abdominal hysterectomy and staying in bed most of the time. Reading, netflix and surfing. I cook once in a while and do some walking. I feel that my internal organs are adjusting filling in the empty space. There’s just a bit pain on end of the suture but its tolerable. I stopped taking pain relievers on the 8th day. Hoping to travel in 2 weeks time. Thanks Katie for posting. We really should listen to what our body needs. Recover & heal well everyone=)
Wendi Cowne says
9 days post hysto and bladder mesh combo, here.
I feel like a hundred dollars. I’ve managed to do so much. Mostly just uncomfortable, not exactly painful. Unless I attempt rotate my hip flexor further than 35 degrees on either side, then I’m frozen and unable to move for a hot minute. I managed to only take four pain pills since being discharged from the hospital.
I’ve been walking, kneeling, bending, climbing stairs, situating and re-situating, and re-situating, repeat. Making myself lunch and breakfasts. Changing diapers while on my knees, toddler on couch or having him climb up onto our bed for changes. I feel like I could do so much more.
Should I be feeling this great, this soon? It seems as though my story doesn’t exactly fit others thus far.
Being down is hard. Watching everyone do all of your work (hopefully). Is hard. Someone else putting your babe to bed because you cannot, and he’s screaming your name…is hard.
Hang in there, ladies.
Cathy says
I am 14 days post surgery I had laparoscopic hysterectomy. I did take it easy the first week and a half, I thought today that I could drive 50 miles and go to the grocery store. Boy am I paying for it now. I can barely move tonight I’ve got hip pain lower abdominal pain, and my back is hurting. Like most of you I figured I would be back up and rolling within two weeks. Not happening! I am going to have to listen and really take it easy for another couple of weeks. I’m just hoping I haven’t messed anything up or delayed my recovery by doing too much today.
Thank you to all of you that have shared about your recovery and set backs. it has helped tremendously reading what all y’all have gone through with this surgery as well. I am self employed, too, it is so hard to cut it off!
Kathy says
I did the same. After almost 2 weeks I did a bunch of dishes yesterday, grocery shopping (didn’t lift anything heavy) and cooked. Today I feel a lot of pressure, like I did the first week. Ugh. Just wondering how you are doing now? I also worry that I messed something up. Hope all is well!
Deborah says
Wow…I am reading this as I am planning my surgery. This is the first site I have come across with an honest account of what this is all going to be like! I have pre-op appointments in the coming weeks. On the 17th I will have the date of my surgery. I have had issues in my uterus since I was 23 and I am now 46. Since my last pelvic ultrasound came back with all symptoms of uterine or onset of uterine cancer, I opted to have a hysterectomy. No more tests, no more poking and prodding…just take it out.
However, reading the posts, I too, am guilty of being Superwoman. I work full-time, teach part-time AND I am corporate trainer/speaker. I was hoping to be able to at least go back to teaching for a few hours 2 days a week. Teaching is my passion and the one job I truly care about…at the moment, I am hoping for the best…I don’t normally sit while teaching but…I can at least do that. Right??
I am truly nervous about recovery because I am super active and just want to get back to normal. Am I being unrealistic? Too optimistic? Sheesh…I am now making lists and purchasing the things I need at home and arranging for help the first 2 weeks…what else do I need to know? My doctor already told me, bed rest for the first 2 weeks and I almost died!!!
Margaret says
I to was fit. Frustrating. It’s true .don’t stress your body. It takes time
Anne de Jager says
Can recomend “Hystersisters” site on Pinterest. Very helpful advice for pre-op and post op. Am 6 weeks post op after TAH plus ovaries. 6 to 12 months for internal healing ! Your surgeon has done his best for you now you have a responsibility to do your best for your recovery. All the best.
Tamar says
Day 13 post surgery…sounds like I am not the only person that thinks and feels that they are Wonderwoman. I don’t do well with pain pills, so I stopped them the day after I got home and managed with ice packs and an ibuprofen here and there. I have a really high pain threshhold, which is great, yet not so great in situations such as these as you will soon read.
As an EXTREMELY active woman, my biggest fear with having this surgery was not being able to lift weights and go to the rock climbing gym. Soooooo…. day 8 I decided to get ou and start moving, so I went out for a short hike. Feeling great the next day, I walked on the treadmill at the gym for an hour, day 10 I decided on a more rigorous and much longer hike, feeling fantastic, day 11 I opted to push myself a bit and went for a fast pace fairly strenuous uphill hike. Day 12 and 13 I feel like my insides are going to fall out!
Everyone, especially my mother, keeps telling me to slow it down, but I have always prided myself on my physical capabilities…I was NOT going to let this slow me down… well, the laugh in only on me. Last night, I succomed to the nasty pain pills that make me nauseous as shit and today it is back to ice packs and ibuprofen. My best friend took it upon herself to spend the night because she wanted to make sure I did NOTHING but lay on the sofa and eat loads of junk food with her, I LOVE her for that! I have my follow up Wed and promised everyone that I would not do anymore hiking until then!
Thanks for sharing your stories… hearing everyone else struggle has helped me tremendously
Lisa says
I loved your post.
I’m 3 weeks today. I’ve sat reading it with tears running down my face. Obviously, in the emotional hormone stage.
Thanks for sharing, a big help 😊
Bobbi Toner says
I not only had a hysterectomy but vaginal reconstruction, a cystocele, rectocele and I thought three months was a joke. I am 4 1/2 weeks out and I can understand why I need to “take it easy”. As soon as I do too much, I can feel great discomfort. I try not to lift anything over 5 pounds and also no housework. If I drive too far or walk to much (which I often do) I am so uncomfortable. So if the Doctor tells you to take it easy, it’s wise to follow the orders. I am learning to take it easy. Which is very hard for me. I can’t even sit on a hard surface for any amount of time.
Shawnese says
Bobbie,
I had the exact same procedures as you, they also had to go laparoscopically to take down adhesions from the c section I had in 1997. I’m only 5 days post op and I’ve stopped taking all pain meds the night of post op 3 thinking I could handle the discomfort I was having. I was doing good until I had to go up and down the stairs twice on day 5. After that, I started to have abdominal and vaginal pain. Today I had to take a Motrin for the pain I was having. Is there anything you can suggest I do or don’t due, in addition to what everyone is staying. At first I told myself I have to recover fast so I don’t have to depend on anyone but now that I found this blog I’m going to listen to you ladies and do what’s best for me and take care of myself.
Jenn says
I am day 11 after TLH. Yesterday I rode in the car about two hours away, shopped for about and hour and travelled back. I was tired and felt a little pressure from walking for that amount of time but felt okay going lo bed. I woke up in the middle of the night with pain and started spotting. I had not had any spotting or bleeding until now. My question is for those who have overdone it, how long after you had a set back did you start feeling better again?? Also have to say for something that is such a major thing and so many of you saying even after months you had an issue or two why the doctors act like it is not a big deal and encourage you that in a couple of weeks you will be able to return to normal activities??? I am scared to death that I will not be able to have sex for months. I was told before surgery it would be about 6 weeks but now I am not so sure that is sufficient. So discouraged as I thought I could be back at the gym in 3 weeks. From reading and what I am experiencing today I am not sure about any of it.
Katie says
I was back to normal feeling within 1 month, but still had bouts of exhaustion for a few months – it wasn’t daily, but if I had a longer or harder day, I would feel tired faster than “normal”. I was able to easily have sex at 6 weeks with no complications. Just be prepared with lubrication and go slow at first.
Heather says
Along with others, thank you so much for this genuine post. I’ve got my consultation in a couple weeks to discuss my hysterectomy. At 41, this surgery never crossed my mind but the fibroids have to go..causing too many issues for me. Thank you to everyone that has been vulnerable & has shared your experiences, I feel like I’m in a room with a few dozen friends, I really appreciate all of you.
Margo Fogg says
I had mine almost 9 years ago. The Dr. did keep me in the hospital 48 hours. I am so glad she did. Wishing you good healing!
Cynthia Killgo says
I’m 3 days post op. I’m feeling great (may be the pain meds talking ). I did a deep clean on my house before my surgery because I knew my hubby (even though he tries so hard) doesn’t clean like I like it. I came home to a clean home…but it’s not staying that way. I had an 11 pound child 12 years ago and was up doing my thing day after having her, but I’m much older now. If my mother was here, she’d tell me to TAKE IT SLOW. It takes time to heal. Women are rockstars, we can do anything and everything…but we must take care of ourselves before we can take care of our families. Hubby and kids went shopping just now and I want to go so badly, but I’m taking it easy. Thank you for your article and your open view on this surgery. The doctor kept me in the hospital for 24 hours, and quite frankly, I loved it. Someone to bring me my pain meds and meals! Hang in there ladies! We got this! One day at a time!
Kelli Padilla says
I really wish i had seen this before now. I’m on day 11. Walked probably a mile for Black Lives Matter yesterday. WRONG CHOICE! Now I feel like I did on day two. I just hope I haven’t done any damage. Staying horizontal now. Live and Learn, I guess!
Amanda says
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Today is my first day post-op after robotic total hysterectomy due to severe pain and bleeding. I have been reluctant to take any pain medication as it makes me almost comatose. I feel like a total wimp laying on the couch all day. I’m struggling with emptying my bladder, scared about the vaginal cuff and causing strain on the stitches. Did anyone notice more pain with one of your laprascopic incisions compared with the others? So glad I found this page, thank you ladies for sharing!
Heather says
I know it’s been a year since your surgery, and you already found this out, but for the sake of the others who read and come after us…
YES!! One of my lap sites was sooo much worse than the others. I told the nurse in the hospital, and she said that is totally normal. It’s where the surgeon does most of his work and one incision site will hurt worse than the rest. That set my mind at ease.
No one mentioned to me with lap surgery that they fill my abdomen with gas, which will travel up to my shoulders and cause as much pain as my midsection! I knew it from incidental conversations over the years, but I do not remember ONE medical professional- from the surgeon or his nurse, to the pre-op nurses or anyone else- mentioning this to me so I could be prepared.
Also wish I knew i would become best friends with our recliner and I wouldn’t be able to lay in bed for a solid seven days. Every time I did, I was like a turtle on its back! I felt helpless, foolish, embarrassed and frustrated every time. Slept in the damn recliner day and night. Honestly, if anyone is reading this prior to her surgery, and you don’t have a recliner… RUN and get one NOW!
Loren says
Thank you for writing this. ♡
Kristi says
I am 7 days post op and laying in bed in tears bc I hurt so much- I too thought I could return to work from my couch a few hours a day since it was outpatient, laparoscopic, I’m super healthy and bounce back from
Things easy- clean the kitty litter, empty the dishwasher, carry a small watermelon upstairs, stop taking pain pills and just take Motrin and tylenol. Nothing huge. But oh way too much. Bleeding started again, heavier and cramping. I’m scared and I’m sorry that I let my body down.
I came across this post and feel better that maybe I’m okay and just need to breathe and relax. Call the doc in AM just to make sure and learn to recover the right way.
I know this post was 4 years ago but if you do read this, thank you for posting.
-KL
Wendy says
Thank you so much. I go in for surgery in almost 36 hours and I’m starting to get nervous. I’ve had a few abdominal surgeries and I know that I have overdone it in the past, to an abysmal end (back in the ER, etc.). Thank you for being honest with the physical and emotional toil.
Ashley Munoz says
I know this is an old post, but it has really resonated with me. I am 9 days post total laparascopic hysterectomy. I have 3 kiddos ranging from 2 to 14. I have a wonderful husband who is so beautifully supportive and loving. I am used to being the one to take care of them. This has been a strange time for me and i’m so stubborn. The past few days, i’ve been trying to do light housework. I find myself squatting a lot instead of bending over.. trying really hard to resume normal life. The fact is though, that right now, i’m not normal. I’m not capable of doing everything and I really just need to chill. Thank you for reminding me that it’s okay to allow myself the time to heal.
Lynda says
It was great to hear all the comments. I am age 70 and 3 weeks post op. Vaginal hysterectomy and bladder repair. I think I am making steady progress though do feel discomfort and tired at times and like so many of you are saying think I should now be doing more. I am enjoying reading and playing the piano a little, may be one or two tunes at a time, and having short walks as far as I feel I can comfortably go. My husband is looking after me well but I have this guilt thing that I should be pushing myself to do more. No pressure it must be a woman thing. Thank you for the advice to listen to your body. Best wishes to you all and thank you for this site and comments.
Diana says
Wow! I am in tears right now. I’m scheduled for a hysterectomy in November and I’m scared; but lookong forward to having the pain go away. Thank you for your transparency. I’m saving this article to remind myself to allow myself the time to heal. God Bless.
Sheri says
Thank you for this article. I wish I’d seen it earlier as it is very helpful. After being diagnosed with endometrial cancer most likely from tamoxifen taken after breast cancer, my surgery was on Aug 28, 2020, the first week of school. The only things I was told to do included nothing over 5 lbs, 6-8 weeks recovery, drive if no meds, and work when you feel like it. Typically, I don’t take off unless I am really sick (upper respiratory, cold, etc.). As an occupational therapist working in the schools, I was very anxious to get back. My work situation was already stressful enough with beginning of school year craziness and catching up due to Covid school closures/working with students from home. For 2 weeks, I lounged around like a good girl. Then, went back to work as if I was super therapist-I wasn’t “sick sick”, right?! With 45-60 min drives one way to first school, four schools to cover, all the movement, it wasn’t good. Did that for 1 week. It was really hard so my supervisor agreed to let me work from home seeing kids virtually 2 days a week. By Wednesday I was done. My incisions were a mess. I was so upset with myself and worried that I caused damage to myself. Because it was FTE-when students are counted for funding, I agreed that I could work from home 2 days but ended up working 2 1/2. By the end of Friday I was in pain and in tears. Didn’t think it would take so long. My incisions are still healing. At this point, sitting in a regular office chair is hard for long periods of time. By noon, I feel done. I’ve had pain but it hasn’t been enough to take something after the first 3 days post surgery. My friends that had hysterectomies told me to listen to my body-I really had to learn how to in a different way such as noticing fatigue, pain level, and the bad state of my incisions. I am grateful for the article and the comments. I don’t feel so bad now that I know others had similar experiences. Thank you all for sharing.
Danielle says
Thank you for writing this. I am almost three weeks out of my surgery. I am so grateful I have taken it slow. I am lucky that my partner usually does most of the housework. We don’t have children so there isn’t the instinct/need to care for young children without slowing down that many women face. I can honestly say I am shocked at how little pain I have had. I am not someone who pushes through and thinks it doesn’t hurt. I was very nervous and thought recovery would be painful and difficult. Since waking up from surgery I can honestly say I’ve had no pain more than maybe a 3. They did find unexpected extensive endometriosis, so maybe that was causing me so much pain that this is better. I am lucky to have had it done laparoscopically. I too work from home ( due to Covid) but am so glad I have just been resting, doing short walks, and lifting only the lightest of objects. Hopefully all is good on the inside. I guess reading this just confirmed for me that although I sometimes feel I ‘should’ be back at work, my doctor knows better than me and I am so happy that I just trusted her and didn’t push through. I didn’t share at work what I was having done as I did fear people thinking I should be back at work because they had been. My doctor is so lovely and just said take the full 6 weeks no question, rest, eat healing foods, and walk when possible for increased durations.
My main hormonal symptoms have been mild night sweats, mild hot flashes, waking up in the night, and dry skin. I think I am a bit weepy as well. Positives are no back pain, decreased migraines, less pelvic pain already (of course some discomfort due to surgery), and all the benefits of why I needed the surgery. (Hyperplasia, horrid clotting, and apparently severe undiagnosed endometriosis.) I wish everyone who is reading this both pre and post surgery nothing but the best. I am so glad that I had this done. -D
Stacy says
Wish I would have read this before my surgery! I am three weeks post op and seem to have been living life as normal after the first week at which time I went back to work from home. I have been running around shopping, lunches with friends, etc and even lifted a case of water (who else was going to do it?). Now I am in pain in my stomach inside and swollen. I am exhausted and my back hurts so take Katie’s advice and take it easy so that you allow yourself to heal the right way.
Virginia says
I’m 5 days in and its been terrible I did everything I should have an I still feel terrible and omg my skin an my scalp feel like I have red ants on them I feel like my skin cming off the dizziness when I do get up don’t make me feel no better like all I’ve been feeling is angry that I took my body through this feeling very regretful. I just left it in God’s hands I feel so miserable. Good luck ladies
Claudia says
Hi day 8 of Laproscopic Hysterectomy. Been good in bed with my mom helping with house chores. I do experience burning inside my tummy and pain.
I laughed so much today can that damage you internally?
I was hoping to get more active tomorrow but scared after reading some of the stories.
I also have been experiencing a headache today for the whole day…….and I hardly ever get headaches. Is this okay?
Thanks for sharing.
Claudia South Africa 🇿🇦
Sherry says
Thank you so much for writing this. I’m at day 5 post op and I woke up feeling so much worst than two days ago. Sat here crying as I read all the comments because now I don’t feel so alone. I’m a very active person and sitting around doing nothing is not normal for me. I did plan to be off work for 2 weeks but I expected to be up and going by now. I don’t have too much pain. It’s more a constant discomfort and feeling of exhaustion. I had laparoscopic surgery so my incisions are small. However I do feel a deep achyness in my abdomen. I guess I better take everyone’s advice and relax, rest and take my time. Thank you again
Teresa Green says
I am on day 8 after a robotic total hysterectomy due to severe pain and bleeding. I have been doing well, until I lifted a Christmas box (toy for a grandchild). I didn’t think it was heavy. I woke up in excruciating pain. Back pain and lower abdominal pain. I hate that I made that mistake. When will it go away.
PS help
Debra says
I am 11 days post op. This page and the comments have been about the best I have found. The first 2 days after surgery were horrible. Not from surgical pain, but from anesthesia wearing off. My bladder was not functioning properly. I had the urge to pee but could not go. I thought I was getting a UTI so I took AZO and Ibuprofen and that really helped. Day 2 I woke up bloated with gas, constipated and in pain. I made my husband go get miralax. I took that combined with Colace and Gas x. I was off pain meds by day 3 and feeling great. With breaks I have been pretty active (Christmas week and New Years). Today I feel blah, a little achy. I have been parked on the couch. No bleeding and no discharge but just a tenderness in the low belly area. There really should be more info like this on the internet.
Maria says
I am so glad I found this entry, I am scheduled for Friday 1/22/2021, and I hadn’t put two and two together of what a big deal this is. I will struggle asking for help and taking it easy, but after reading this and all of your advise i will be sure to do so. I will insist that my doctors give me the time I need to heal properly and totally. I will not make my body go through any unnecessary pain or delay it’s healing. Thank you so much for sharing.
Manderz says
Hello ladies. I know this post isn’t exactly recent but I only found it today. Today is day 13 of recovery for me. I have definitely taken it easy and tried to follow ever doctor order. I have a very supportive husband and a 14 year old little momma. I really dont have to do anything around the house. My exercises consist of walks to the bathroom, the mailbox or fixing me a glass of water. Yet here I am, 13 days of taking it easy, still feeling as if I’ve been punched in the stomach. Yes, I wonder if it will ever stop. I feel the same as I did 5-6 days ago. I thought for sure I’d be able to get around more by now. I’ve already has a couple of break down for being “such an inconvenience” to everyone around me. Of course those are my words, not theirs. I absolutely hate having everyone do everything for me…. I’ve honestly cried a couple of times wondering if it was all worth it. Keep in mind, I turned 37 only 10 days before my surgery. I am still very young for this sort of thing. But there’s no turning back now. I just hope I can get back to normal soon…. I really enjoyed reading these posts. Now I know I don’t need to call my doctor in the morning, that my pain is still in the normal range….
Teresa says
I had mine years ago they had to cut me and it took 3months for me to start feeling better but after everything heals after about 1 year you will be your old self again
Theresa says
Thank you, I am 16 days I was doing pretty good started walking my dog another day this dog come running at my dog no leash another dog I had to grab my dog lift him over my head oh my God I felt a pull in my belly button now my stomach is so sore I’m a little worried but reading all your posts I know I’m not the only one Waiting to talk to my doctor thank you again
Claire says
Just had abdominal hysterectomy in the UK. Was made to feel like I was malingering by the nursing staff the morning after the surgery and they wanted me to go home. Quite simply a totally unpleasant experience, I’ve come home on day three ill informed and feeling terrible as I’m also a type 1 diabetic. No one assisted me get up and I feel like I e pulled stitches. I have blistering along the dressing but apparently this isn’t anything to be concerned about or look out for. I didn’t expect to be bullied by nurses and a junior doctor into leaving before I felt ready and without seeing a surgeon to explain what they actually did during the operation. As they only had three patients on the ward it wasn’t as though I was causing an issue by sleeping. I feel awful but am loathe now to approach medical staff for advice as bar one really helpful empathetic nurse the rest were unsympathetic to the point of rudeness. Apparently they were not used to gynae patients as usually it’s an orthopaedic ward but it’s still major surgery and I am shocked at the behaviour of some of the caring profession.
shareen says
I am almost 3 week out from laparoscopic surgery. Today I work up to abdominal pain. Haven’t done anything strenuous at all. I have walked around the store a few times last week. No issues and came home got in the bed. I also had a some spotting. Is this normal? I’m so confused at everything they say online. It scares the hell out of me. I’m thinking I tore something or its an infection. This blog has really helped me feel better ☺. Hearing the stories of other women who are going through or may have overdone it a little make me feel like I’m not alone.
H says
Day 21 here, and I thought I was going back to work at day 14?! Heh.
I know this post is from ages ago, but others will probably find it and it will resonate as it has with me.
I nursed those stinking dilaudid right out through day 14, saving them for when I reaaaaally needed them. Day fifteen was tough, and had me alternating between Motrin and Tylenol every two hours.
I am FINALLY feeling like myself, and my husband said he can finally see I’m “back”. I’m only 39, and was brazen, thinking, “I got this.” Oh how wrong I was!
I echo your sentiments- LISTEN to the women who tell you to take it easy! Listen to the doctors when they tell you NOT to do something! I felt so good on Post Op Day 5, I cleaned and did laundry and puttered around the house… and then got knocked on my tail for three days following because I did far too much too soon! Take care, and accept help! <3
Sarah says
I’m day 6 post hysterectomy, and feel this so deeply. Thank you for putting into words all the emotions that I’m trying to wrangle.
Debie says
Hi, I am 3 weeks (March 8th 2021) out from my hysterectomy, I am still in pain, I had the robotic assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy. I was upset when my pain did not go away, my family and friends all said”I was up and back to normal in just a few days” “2 weeks after surgery you need to start working out, stop babying yourself” I was feeling sad and frustrated, why couldn’t I jump up and be pain free, why couldn’t I be normal like everyone else that’s had this?? I went to my dr and asked her why I was in so much pain still.. I wasn’t expecting her answer. My surgery took almost 5 hours, I had lesions connecting every thing together, ( picture a hand with 20 fingers holding on to spleen, bladder, appendix, large intestine, gallbladder , uterus, ovaries and lord only knows what else) I had to have a bladder sling, stitches to keep everything inside, she took out 10lbs of of tissue. “This is why your still in pain and will be for a few more weeks”
My stomach is lopsided, I no longer look as if 9 months pregnant. But I now have an over hang and have to wear support underwear it helps with the pain. I am having cold flashes!! I have never been cold always hot, but now I can’t get warm. So no it’s not easy, you can not compare yourself to others and everyone is different.
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Mia says
I have had the same experience. I’m 12 days post surgery. My 1st week I felt so good I was resting but like day 7 I started moving around around. I “facilitated” in cleaning my basement I swept my floor just a whole bunch of unnecessary stuff that definitely could have waited. That was Sunday I got woke up out of my sleep IN PAIN. Abdominal pain, back pain, I was nauseated it was horrible and nothing worked. I had pain meds home remedies etc and nothing worked I literally had to ride it out. That horrible pain lasted 3 days and I’m sitting here writing still not feeling so good better but still down. Ladies pllllease rest and take your time healing. I regret doing too much before it was time now I’m scared it set me back several weeks.
Kristina says
Well I think I’m going to be kicking myself tonight or tomorrow after reading all this. I have had very little pain since day 2 or 3. Honestly, the most pain I felt was an incredibly sore throat from the breathing tube the first 24 hours after surgery and then severe pain/cramping when I took laxatives to prevent constipation and the horribly painful bowel movement that followed (I have IBS with constipation and ended up in the ER 2 weeks after my csection with my 2nd son).
Having felt so good, I’ve done small stuff around the house, gone to the store 2 days, and even trimmed bushes yesterday. No issues at all and have been off pain meds and not taking anything else since day 3. My surgery was April 1 and I had a complete hysterectomy and scar tissue removed from endometriosis. Today is day 8 and I scheduled to go back to work Monday (day 11) with doctors clearance since I’ve been feeling fine, minus feeling a bit tired after I’m up for long periods. This morning my husband and I took our toddler to the zoo while my older son was at school. It’s the Houston Zoo so it’s not little and we walked the whole thing. I walked incredibly slow and stopped as I felt I needed. I was def tired when we left and my stomach is more swollen but no pain… yet. As soon as we got home I laid down and have been since but now I’m so worried it was too much and I’ve set myself back! I’m a special education teacher and am dying to get back to work, as it’s nearing the end of the year and I have so much to get done. Wish I had read this last week!!!
Kristina