Hysterectomy

i just wanted to let everyone know that I did get a second opinion about the hysterectomy and it's a go!!! I've scheduled surgery for November 22nd. I'm finally ok with my decision after hearing the same thing from 2 different doctors. I have to have a complete hysterectomy so my dr is doing it abdominally. I'm going to be out of work through the 1st of the year. If anyone has any helpfull hints or anything for preparing myself for this or what to do or not to do after surgery I would really appreciate it. Right now I'm ok but I think as it gets closer I'm going to start getting nervous! Thanks once again for everyone's help!

Marcia

[Christie2004]

Your doc will give you more specifics about what to do after, but here are some general things you can do.

Have some sanitary pads available, you might be spotting or bleeding lightly afterwards.

A heating pad can be soothing to your sore tummy.  Some people feel better with an ice pack, so have both available.

Have some loose, stretchy pants on hand.  Your belly may be sort of swollen, and pants you have now might be too tight and uncomfortable for a while.

A small pillow to brace against your tummy can feel good.  Coughing can make you sore, and bracing your tummy makes it hurt less.

Make sure you have some ibuprofen on hand (if you are not allergic or sensitive to it)

Have some sore throat lozenges, too.  If you have general anesthesia, you may have a sore throat from that.  

Stock up on easy to digest things, like soups, popsicles, 7 up or other soda.  Crackers are good too--sometimes you might have a bit of nausea after.  Some pain meds can make you slightly nauseated, too, so don't take them on an empty stomach.

Get some easy to fix meals, too..or have someone else do the food prep while you take it easy.

You may want to have just a few sterile dressings around, with some skin-friendly tape.  Sometimes your abd. wound may be a bit weepy.

Good books are a must!

That's all I can think of right now.  Good luck!

[mls1604]

will do!! I have to get my computer at home replaced hopefully soon after my surgery or it's gonna be a long 6 weeks!!!!!!!!!

[tresmathews]

Good luck please let me know how it goes.

[troid]

go to hystersister.com  wonderfull site, everything you need to know