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“My surgery was totally unexpected and done on an emergency basis. I had no time to research what to expect. A friend brought a copy of your 101 Hints shortly after and it was extremely helpful and reassuring.” Daline
(Read what other readers have said below).
This invaluable book provides all the essential practical information, tips and advice that will help to make your hysterectomy a happy one. Perfect, whether you are waiting for a date or have already had your surgery, it removes many of the worries we have as we recover simply and easily.
It has masses of information, hints and tips on a huge number of subjects like:
- advice and suggestions to help make your recovery quicker and easier
- practical tips to help you cope with each stage of recovery
- when to think about driving, flying and getting back to work
- what you should, and shouldn’t be doing at any given time
- fantastic, healthy recipes for healing the body and managing the menopause
- many complementary therapies, supplements and remedies you can try which have been shown to help your body heal itself
- what you can do to help ensure your long term health
- what to take into hospital with you
There is even more information on deciding whether to take HRT or not; how to decide whether you should have your ovaries and cervix removed; the various exercises you can do at different stages; dealing with the more embarrasing aspects of surgery like painful wind; coping with the boredom of recovery and generally getting your life back to normal.
Hi, I have recently had a hysteroscopy and a DNC and lazering of the lining of the womb. I am experiencing heavy bleeding and Diarrohea with severe period pains my procedure was done eleven days ago please advise. Thanks
I think it is important to go back to see your GP as soon as possible Ann. They will be able to do some tests to see if you have an infection of some description. Linda
I had a hysterectomy 13 months ago, I am having a fresh bleeding as if I am menstruating. There is also a pain
Hi Louisa. I think you need to see your GP as soon as possible so that they can do an examination and perhaps some tests. It is unusual to start bleeding at this late stage, but it could be related to internal scarring. Linda
It’s only been 7 days since the op and I have got a water infection and have really smelly discharge is this normal?
Hi Wendy, it is very common to have an infection post hysterectomy and the discharge may be associated with that. You must visit your GP so that the appropriate tests can be done and a course of treatment prescribed. Linda
I had a hysterectomy two weeks ago and have not experienced any bleeding but today I have a brown/pink discharge and almost like fresh blood when I wipe myself? Is this normal
Hi Kay, yes it is normal and can occur any time up to a couple of months post op. Keep an eye on it though and if it changes, a quick visit to your GP for a checkup will help.
I had my opp one week ago, I have pain, but no discharge and also feel drained with a metel taste in my mouth, my water seems to be a different colour each day.
Hi Linda, it’s not unusual to feel drained and will be a part of your body’s reaction to the trauma it’s suffered in surgery.
Hi, I had my operation almost three weeks ago. I also had my bladder and bowels sown back into place. I too have a very smelly discharge and although there is no fresh blood how much longer will this carry on for. I feel drained and constantly want to sleep. Although my Doctor is wonderful I don’t want to bother him over such a silly issue.
Hi Sally. A discharge may be an indicator of an infection so a trip to your GP is probably to be recommended. This isn’t a silly issue and needs to be addressed.
hi,i hope you can help.im going into hospitl a week today for a hysterectomy,im terrified of gaining weight as ive suffered from an eating disodr since i was 11 and im now 40my consultant told me a hysterectomy wont make me gain weight,can you help me as im having second thoughts of going through with the op as i dont think i could deal with weight gain.
Hi there Tracy. Hysterectomy itself shouldn’t make you gain weight. However, it’s an unfortunate fact that most hysterectomies tend to take place at an age when women are more inclined to add weight to their bodies through natural hormonal changes and if you continue to eat the same amount you always have, without taking into account the fact that you won’t be doing the same amount of exercise/be in your normal routine, then you will almost certainly gain weight.
i had a hysterectomy 20yrs ago and had a bath tonight and iam bleeding what could this be
It’s probably nothing to do with your hysterectomy but could be something else entirely, I think a visit to your GP is probably in order Annette.
I had my op 10 days ago and have found this site very helpful. I had a few concerns but they have all been put to rest now that I know a lot of it is quite normal.
Thank you
It’s always good to hear that we’ve been able to help normalise things Jude – often most women just want to know that they aren’t alone. Linda
I had a vaginal hysterectomy, laparoscopy and a couple of repairs 5 weeks ago . Still having a discharge but it’s been petering out slowly. Last night noticed darker discharge on pad. This morning noticed watery fresh blood with a couple of tiny clots. Is this normal?
Hi Nadira, yes, in many cases this is perfectly normal. However, if you are concerned you should visit your GP so that they can put your mind at rest. Linda
I have had my Hysterectomy two weeks ago and i keep gettin very sharp pains from my virgina like glass is in there and when i move or anything the pain is horrid. Is that normal. Thank you
Hi Michelle, it may simply be something like the stitches starting to heal but I think to be on the safe side it would be worth having a chat with your GP to see if there is another problem too. Linda
I had my total abdominal hysterectomy done 2 months ago and had 2 possible infections since then which my gynaecologist has treated. Are there further complications if I continue to have infections?
Hi Ann. I have added a link here to the possible risks : http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/index.php/information/what-is-a-hysterectomy/the-risks-of-hysterectomy/ whether they are more likely as a result of multiple infections post op I’m not able to say. You might also find the questions in our recovery survey that asks about what women have experienced helpful in what’s possible and likely: http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/index.php/research/post-hysterectomy-recovery-survey/
hi had total hysterectomy 1 week ago doing well, feel very tired, but i do have sharp sting pain now +again down my right side down low by cervix area even though i have had it removed any idea what it could be
It may be caused by the internal wounds healing and the nerves reconnecting. If it gets worse a visit to the doctor would be a good idea.
i had a hysteretomy 3 weeks ago and am losing a watery discharge whick is yellowish in colour is this anything to be worried about
It could be a minor infection Kelly, perhaps a visit to your GP might be in order.
hie
l had hysterectomy on the 30 Sep 2010 lam losing appetite l dnt feel like eating any thing just taking drinks and water l have tried different type of food but nothing is changing? and lam having this heavy smell coming out from my vagina l do the exerices every morning. lam going for my review next month. l have pain on the side of my tummy were l had steralization before
Hi Ruth. You may well have a minor infection and it might be worth heading over to your GP to get checked out just in case. Linda
hi lind i had hysterectomy on the 12th oct 10 and im in no pain only when my bowels are playing , im not feeling any of the things some of the ladies are feeling ,am i just lucky or do u think ther s somrthing wrong with me mentaly yours tracy x
Not at all Tracy, you are just having your own unique experience of having a hysterectomy – they are all different, that’s what makes it endlessly fascinating for people like me
I had a vaginal hysterectomy 3 weeks ago and a pelvic floor repair … I have been reaaly good until today … I have this awful bearing down feeling in my vagina… I think I may have overdone things as I felt so well HELP…
Mmmmm, if you think you may have overdone it, then you probably have. My suggestion would be to rest and see what happens, if it improves that’s great, if not a quick trip to your GP might be in order.
HI Linda
I had a Hysterectomy in march the Docter said it was Entrmetrosis and it was a bit of a mess inside after my 8 week check up they told my husband and i they took everthing away apart from my overies
Iv since been told from my Docter that they have left the neck of the womb there because it was 2 dangerous
I feel as if im in limbo he is refering me back for them 2 exsplane have u ever heard of this ? im so mixed up and still in pain just above my scar Thanks janie
Did they say why it was too dangerous? It may simply have been that the neck of the womb was attached by endo to other organs.
Hi I had my hysterectomy 27 oct 2010. i am bleeding a little also my tummy feels numb to the touch, how long will this last. and is the numbness anything to worry about. i had a total abdominal hysterectomy many thanks.
Hi Elaine, numbness in some areas of the abdomen and groin is common post hysterectomy and will tend to go away in time and as nerves heal.
Hi I had a total hysterectomy on the 23rd september 2010. So am 7wks now after but I still feel alot of pain in my lower stomach, taken pain killers twice aday, was given hormone patch but some days I just sit and cry
for no reason is all this normal x
It is normal to have an emotional reaction to surgery – some call it the post surgery blues, but it doesn’t normally last this long. It might be worth getting your hormone levels checked as the patches may not be enough for you. See you GP for a blood test.
hi i am going to be admitted to have my ovaries removed & ovarian cyst.since last year i had the ca-125 tests done which when results came they said i may have ovarian cancer as the readings were high then diffrent readings.i still have the cyst and i am having pre op assessment.i am very confused what to do please help? i not sure to have the full op or just remove the ovaries.
Hi Naina, you need to talk this over with your GP and your Gynaecologist as they will both be able to advise you on the options. You might find this thread on the forums helpful: http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=10781 and the following information section too: http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/index.php/information/why-do-i-need-a-hysterectomy/gynaecologicalcancer/
I had a subtotal hysterectomy plus ovaries removed on two and half weeks ago by key hole surgery (10th November 2010). A few days ago out of blue I had a sudden flood of blood plus a clot, then a day later another flood of watery blood – is this normal. I have not lost any blood prior to this? Thank you.
It is common to have some bleeding post hysterectomy and this can be caused by a number of factors, including internal healing and the stitches dissolving. This bleeding can start up to 7 weeks after the operation. However, you need to keep an eye on it and if it becomes heavier or fresher then a trip to the doctor is recommended for a quick examination.
Hi I had a total abdominal hysterectomy on the 16th of Dec. I started bleeding a week after surgery which I had checked out and they found a small clot which they said I was bleeding from. I was given a course of antibotics to take to prevent any infections. I then became extremely dizzy whilst sitting or standing this has since improved. In the last few days I am experiening a unpleasant viginal odour even after numerous showers. Do you think I could have an infection?
It’s so great to read other peoples comments who have been through the same procedure. Many thanks Sandy
It certainly sounds like it could be a minor infection, although this is not something to worry about as they are very common Sandy.
Hi Sandy, I had the same sort of umpleasant smell and I was given a course of Antibiotics and feel 100% now. I hope you get it sorted.
Hi, ive had heavy periods for years ,they have been so heavy that ive had to go into hospital and have iron infusions due to anaemia. I’m 48 yrs old and i’m hoping i won’t have to put up with this much longer, but my GP keeps recommending that i have a mirena fitted or have a Hysterectomy. I really don’t want to have an operation but i would like to know what you think.
The Mirena coil can be very effective for a lot of women and is definitely the least invasive option. Why not try this first.
Hi Suzanne
I have had terrrible problems over the years with heavy periods and was also recommended to have a mirena coil. I am aware that it does work for many – but it didn’t for me. There are a number of other options though like microderm abalation which can also help. The hysterectomy is an ultimate resort really and you should give the coil a try at least.
J
Hi
I had a total abdominal hysterectomy on 18th Jan, had my staples out on 24th jan & my wound had been bleeding since. I went to A&E who said it was ok, but I cant move !!!! I am on Warferin. What should I do? This website was recommended by my sister in law & I thought “I don’t need that” BUT thanks, it just confirms I am not alone OR mad !!!!! Feeling useless & bored, & I have a very good husband.
Keep up the good work. Thanks
You certainly aren’t alone or mad Kim, although it can help sometimes
I can’t explain why you are bleeding but it sounds like you are doing the right thing by keeping in touch with medical services.
hi looked up your website as am waiting to go into hospital to have a hysterectomy , very helpful and incitive (hope i have spelt that right )am going to get your book and keep it with me , lots of advice , well done you should speak to the Nhs about funding your book to go to women when they have the operation ,
Regards Ruth
Hi Ruth, it’s a great idea to find out about funding, the only problem is that all budgets have been cut and we’ve never been able to secure funding before either so the likelihood of it happening now is even less. I’m glad we’ve been able to help though
I have to have a hysterectomy because I have a polyp in my vagina and they found a 2 year cyst on my overy So the Dr. recommend I have a hysterectomy I know it is my choice but now I am scared . It is comforting to know there are a lot of woman going through the same thing as me Thank you for this web site
hi there,
I had an abdominal hysterectomy on 17th May and was home 3 days later. I’ve had to do everything at home myself as I’m a single mum to a 19 year old teenager who thinks xbox is his life. I went to get my stitches removed on thursday and asked the doctor for a note for work, he seems to think that 4 weeks is sufficient for recovery and then I can go back to work because I work in an office, the problem is I’m a manager and can work up to 12 hours a day, would you think it would be a good idea to go back to work so soon?
It’s definitely not that usual to go back that quickly after abdominal hysterectomy and I’d suggest you ask your GP for another sick note.
I have a total hysterectomy on the 18th May 2011 and I have been given a certificate twice that covers me for 8 weeks and even when I return to work it will be a phased return with altered hours. My GP told me before the operation I could be off work between 8-12 weeks depending on my recovery. Everyone’s recovery is different but I believe 6 weeks is minimum for abdominal surgery.
Hi im due to have a hysterectomy on 28th july and have found your information very helpful,im going to purchase your book as can see many ladies have found it a big help.
Why thank you for letting me know Helen – I hope you find it helpful too
had a total hysterectomy 12 days ago, getting better slowly but suffering from a really bad back, i guess where i’m not standing up straight! not been able to go for a short walk yet but hopefully in the next week ot two.
Hi i had an adbominal hystectomy 4 weeks ago. I have had slight spotting since day 10, which stopped after a week. since yesterday day 27 since op i have been having a watery pink/red blood loss no pain and no signs of an infection. is this normal? thanks
Hi Frances, yes it is and it can happen several weeks post op.
Hello, had a vaginal hysterectomy and posterior and anterior repair back in October 2011. Some minor problems with healing but all seems to be going ok now. Just wondering why I would still be having a slight discharge after all this time . Sometimes it is a bit heavier than other times and it is a light brown colour. Is it expected to always have some discharge from the vagina seeing it is self cleaning – although didn’t have any before op and after menopause but some prior to menopause.
It may be associated with the healing process and light spotting is common in the weeks after a hysterectomy (and can start up to 8 weeks after the op). It might also be worth just asking your GP to check it out for you too.
Hi there Im due to have full hysterectomyin next month due to endometriosis and fibroids, I have no engergy always tired I would like to get a bit more fit ready for op but I’m lifeless.
I have no children and I’m 36. I would like to know what to excepted afterwards.
Have you picked up our free booklet? If not that would be a great place to start and then I’d recommend checking out the forums and chatting with our lovely ladies there.
Hello. I had a life-saving total hysterectomy last week because a massive uterine tumour started bleeding. Nearly died due to extreme blood loss so happy to be alive. Also, tumour turned out to be benign luckily. However, I’m 43 years old so will have to take HRT. Do women generally do well on HRT after a menopause caused by a oophectomy (rather than the natural menopause?).
It would normally be recommended at your age but that will depend on conversations with your GP.
i have just had a vaginal hyerectomy deu to years of bleeding and abnormel cells. didnt know alot about the op lisened to the docs and read what i could .it was just the basice,then i read my mag i get ever mouth which is prima and here i am on your websit i carnt put in to words what i felt when i read your story only that it is great to know that i know alot more than i did when i went in for my op,and that my husband is out now getting your book .and im here to stay.ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK VERY VERY MUH KIM X
Hi there im due to have a vaginal hysterectomy and anterior repair with the removal of my overies and falopium tubes on the 6th feb and im terrified.I’ve had several operations over the past few years and have just accepted that they had to be done so felt ok.But this feels so different.I had my pre-assessment y’day and came close to walking out.My husband was with me and is really supportive as he always is as i have Fibromyalgia (i was diagnosed nov 2010) and the thought of how i could feel after the op is making me feel really anxious and causing flare ups,and worried my medication im taking won’t be strong enough after my op.
Have you spoken to your husband Sarah? It might be worth sitting down and doing so.
Hi Linda
I had total hysterectomy on my abdomen and my ovaries and fallopian tubes have been removed at the same time about 16 days ago. My abdomen swelling has gone down a lot, but I still feel tired and my energy level is limited.
Q1. Could you let me know if this is normal as I feel extremely tired around lunch time?? I feel dizzy and could not even watch TV without taking little naps.
Q2. Could you advise whether I could go travelling 10 weeks after my operation? The flight is for 13-14 hours.
regards
SM
Love this website and all of the posts. Had my TAH and bilateral salpingo oophectomy about 10 days ago. Feeling pretty good but know i need to take it slow. Went to the book store today for a bit an dit was too much
I had a full hysterectomy 5 dys ago with complications, my left ovary and tubes were attached to my bowel. I am having cramp and severe pains before/during going to the toilet and my tummy feels numb. I am aware it is early dys but have no energy at all pls can you advise?
Hi Maureen, as you say, it is early days and your energy levels will be shot to pieces whilst you begin the process of recovery. If you are suffering from constipation then a visit to the GP might be in order too.
Hi Maureen,
I had everything removed 12 days ago plus abletions removed as my overies were attached to my bowels. I have also had the severe cramps and pains. I did phone my GP and he told me that because of the complications the bowel goes into spasm as it has not yet settled down but I am glad to say that the cramps are easing. The numbness is due to all the nerves are not back to life yet.
I hope this has helped.
Hi linda, I had my operation on the 13th feb to which everythink was taken out. My stomach is still tender and swollen it looks like a rugby ball, is this normal? the only things i feel comfortable wearing is my pjs. Am rearly tired all the time but my sleeping pattern is rubbish! the doc put me on hrt 2 weeks ago and they are rearly helping me with the hot flashs and am not sweeting now. Since my operation i now have anemia i have to take 3 Ferrous Sulphate 200mg a day how long will this last? and is this the reason for me being so tierd. All i want to do is to get back to normal and get back to work.
You’ve only been recovering for a little over a month and you have had major surgery. Everything will get better it just takes time.
Hi, I had a total abdominal hysterectomy with both ovaries remaining on 3/26/2012. I seem to be healing well. No big recovery issues thus far, and prayerfully it will remaim that way. The binder that my doctor ordered for me helped tremendously. I have two concerns, is it normal to have body temperature issues (going from hot to cold) eventhough my ovaries remain. Also I seem to have extreme sexual urges now that I didn’t have before. Are these normal?
You need to check this article out Wanda, it may help to give you an insight into the menopause post hysterectomy: http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/index.php/information/the-menopause/
I’ve a posterior an anterior vaginal repair and vaginal hysterectomy 5 weeks ago this last week I have been able today for the first time I had to stain at bowl I heard and felt some thing “give” I have had vaginal and pelvic pain since. No analgesia required for 3 weeks. Was thinking most sutures would have dissolved by now. So a bit concerned. Gaye
It would be worth seeing your GP for a quick check-up just to make sure everything is healing nicely.
am so greatful for all articles about hysterectomy. have learned a lot.had one in april 2011 and my doc didnt say much to explain pros and cons.am now worried about oestregen replacement therapy didnt know there was so much contra-indications and warnings of risk factors such as cancer. am taking 0.625 premalin dose evrydy. now coz of these risk factors am afraid to continue. so far i have no problem in connection with th hysterectomy but had a disc prolapse 2010 and dont know what wll bcome of poor me.at present am feeling o.k accepting each day as it comes and thanking GOD for life. am in africa ,zimbabwe and good medical attention is sometimes minimal. pliz advise. thanx for the good educational job.
I think you probably need to chat with your Doctor about how HRT is perceived in your medical system. The UK have a system that recommends that women stop taking it around 5 years after they started but that is in the case of normal menopause. When you have had a hysterectomy there are even more conflicting advices
I had a laparoscopic hysterectomy on 23 of April,today is May 4,2012,I went to UAB a couple days ago,they gave me a shot of morphine and sent me scared ome.I know there is a healing period but every since I had it,it feels like I’m having contractions in my bladder,it feels like my bladder but it’s inside,feels just like labor contractions and they told me to walk around and be active but everytime I stand up,even when I take my time and sit on the side for a few minutes I feel like I’m gonna faint,I fell one day,that’s when I went to UAB,but they didn’t check blood or anything,I’m really scared,my surgeon is out and I am not going back to the ER,any suggestions?
If you were in the UK I’d suggest you make an appointment with your GP as you are in the US I think you probably need to go back to the ER and get a check-up.
Hi – I had my historectomy done 17 april 2012. My stomach is still swollen and I have an irriable burning pain in my stomach on the left side – just above my scar. It comes and goes. Is it normal and also had episodes of dizzyness. I was given an injection in my left upper arm whilst in-hospital, to prevent blood clots. That arms is still very sore – I can hardly touch it and it is swollen. Anything to worry about? Please help
I think it would probably be wise to get a visit in to your GP to get it checked out as you may have a slight infection which is very common post op.