Not feeling like myself following hysterectomy

I had a hysterectomy on March 23, 2018. I had my uterus, cervix and Fallopian tubes removed.  I thought I was fortunate to keep my ovaries as my Gynecologist assured me that would keep my hormones intact.  Not mentioning the pain, discomfort and constipation due to surgery, I have since been waking up in the middle of the night with hot flashes.  I also don’t feel like myself. I feel numb and detached. Is this what my life will be like in the future?  I really didn’t expect to feel this way. I am regretting my decision to have the surgery. 

I also had hysterectomy on the 22nd March. The difference is, I had my ovaries taken out as well. I also have days when I feel like I am regretting having the operation; however every day feels like I am getting better. I feel exhausted and feel useless as I can’t do much. I guess will have to wait for the 6 weeks recovery period and take it from there. The only other thing that is bothering me is the headaches I am getting and I am struggling to wear my contact lense for the whole day. 

I am sure you will pull through. Take one day at a time. 

Ohh Pamela.

I truly understand. May I inquire your age? I’m inquiring about your age is because I was advised to undergo my hysterectomy much earlier than I agreed to have it. This may have been the time for you/ sooner than later. 

Please understand that I’m not a physician, only a co patient. I so empathize with the menopausal effects. I was 5 years into menopause when I underwent my surgery. This was a not an easy surgery to experience. The recovery period and instructions 

are essential to be taken seriously. Don’t feel as though your disturbing your physician or their office staff, if you are questioning anything. Questioning whether or not you ought to have had surgery is what I’m also now questioning. Nevertheless, it was advised by your physician and if you had been experiencing any of the symptoms that I was experiencing for a portion of 15 years, than yes,,,, perhaps this is your beginning recovery in a multitude of problems that may have worsened. I believe that i made a wise decision. Please feel free to reach out again. 

I am 45 years old.  I was having significant problems which warranted the hysterectomy. With that said, I had become pretty good with managing the pain due to my female problems. Now I dealing with a new set of issues related to The hysterectomy.  I even thought I would be able to return to work after two weeks - even though my doctor laughed at me.  I read boron stories on the internet but everyone I personally spoke with said it was the best thing they ever did. 

Hi Pamela, I had my one exactly like you on the 28th March.... the pain so far is doable however I feel exactly like you... a bit zoned out! I had the occasional hot flush and oh my they are powerful that is for sure!! Same as you, I really hope that this is just a phase and is not going to be like this in the future because i wasn't aware of all of this before the surgery.... wish you all the best x

You've had major surgery!  It will take exterior incisions 6-8 weeks to heal, your internal parts 6-8 months.  You need to give yourself and your spirit time to heal.  

Your body needs to sort itself out, that's only natural. Also, if you've been taking pain meds that's why you're constipated.  Rest. xx

Sorry to hear your feeling this way. However we are all different and have varies of symptoms, but take your vitamins and check with your primary for answers. Stay strong 

Hi Pamela.

I truly feel your pain. You remind me of myself... 😂😂😂,,, wanting to return to work after (2) weeks ,,,,, No Can Do!!!!

It’s listening to the doctors, having patience and above all, understanding that we can hang up tbe ‘Wonder Woman’ capes for a long while. I’m coming to the realization that’s what I need!!!! 

Goodness, you only had major surgery what, 15 days ago? it takes at least (at least) 6 weeks to start feeling a little better and can take up to (and longer) a year to be fully back to normal again, I had my hysterectomy 3 years ago and it takes time to heal, I'm assuming you had this op done as you were having problems? so how can you be regretting it? Those problems are gone hopefully, I had mine because I had cancer so I definitely don't regret having it done, your constipation is easily controlled, there are all manner of things you can take take/eat to sort that out and if the hot flashes are a problem talk to your doctor. Remember, patience is a virtue. ;0)

Pamela, 

Please forgive my delay in reaching out.  You had your surgery a day after mine.  I am experiencing the very same thing. Believe it our not. I’m 54 years old, still have my ovaries  and thought that I was completely done with menopause. 

I’m feeling very similar with feelings that I cannot understand. Tears, lack of focus and  short tempered. I have an appointment with my physician on Tuesday. I’m also very tired and just want to 💤 sleep. These  feelings will not last. We just had the surgery and our bodies have gone through an incredible overhaul. Try to be patient. In addition, be kind to yourself. I’ve been told to pretty much stay off my feet and stairs. It’s been truly tough, being that I’m extremely active..... Believe it or not,,, I ordered a mini keyboard 🎹 and decided to teach myself. I haven’t removed it from the box., but today is a new day!!!! Little by little you’re going to feel better. Call your doctor and speak with him as well. Take care and reach out again. )

Hi hun

I had my tvh on ja n 22 nd but did keep my ovaries.

It's takes months for your body to adjust to the absence of an organ.

If you haven't gone through menopause then there are a host of remedies to try.

I take Peruvian maca and it's brill. I also take a bio identic a l progesterone cream.. It's all natural and have had clinical trials.

I think you need to give yourself more time as it's not i my short of 2 wks😱 yet.

I'm 11 wks and still taking things really slow.I'm 59 slim and otherwise healthy.

Please see your consultant if your worried,I am at 12 wks.

X

Hi Welshgirl.

Thank you for sharing this information.

I’m 54 years old and (2) weeks post operative. I’ve been attempting to move around too much and still use stairs on average of (8) x’s daily. It’s now 2:30 P.M. on Saturday and I’m laying down with intermittent pain which has been occurring. My appointment is on Tuesday and I’m preparing myself for a tongue lashing from my physician. Yes. This is major surgery and it takes quite more recovery  time than I had initially anticipated. May I inquire to tbe length of serious bed rest that everyone has been following. My doctor had explained bedrest for at least (2) weeks, bare minimum of stairs and absolutely no lifting, pulling, pushing or bending. In addition, no driving for (4) weeks. The no sex part, isn’t a concern for me! LOL!!!!

I thought I’d reach out to you guys, bring that I’m now in bed. 

I was the same way, I’m now 4 wks post op, having navel pain, I had to lay down and pamper myself. Please take time to relax and recuperate. Stay strong 

You too Liz?

Oy!

I believe that you’re correct. We’re all in the same mode. I’m spouting responses within our discussion and I’m feeling like crap. I have replied in my deal to follow up with our ladies after my appointment with my physician. 

I’m still watching out for replies, responses and sharing. 

I though that I was a tough cookie!!!

I’m now 11 days post op, I’m 47 and have had my ovaries removed with everything else.  I haven’t been given any further appointment from the hospital or any aftercare information, so the only information I’m getting is on here and google.  I thought I was doing really well but I don’t seem to be improving at all, and I’ve started being incontinent the last few days, only a bit but enough to be embarrassing.  I still am on pain killers pretty much every 4 hours and so so tired all the time not wanting to do anything.  I also haven’t been told anything about HRT, and google is a bit vague, do you have to have it as apart from the hot flushes nothing has changed menopausal wise from pre op.  Thank you for this forum it has been such a help and comfort to me. Xx

Hello,

Im due to have my op this year have my pre op this month so wont be long after that I think.  what is the cream you used?  Where did you get it and where do you put it??  I am concerned about going through the menopause and am looking for something I can start taking that will maybe help me.  At the moment I do not know if they will take or leave my ovaries.

I am getting quite concerned about having the op now as I have a large fibroid but no symptoms apart from the bloated tummy.  I know it will have to be open tummy surgery because of the size of it. I will be 48 this year and have shown no sign of starting the menopause.

Thanks 

Hi Sarah.

I’m so sorry for what your experiencing. 

From what I gather, you’re not receiving any support from your healthcare providers. 

I strongly urge you to reach out to the hospital where you underwent your surgery. I’m also getting a sense that you may not have a private gynecologist. Please correct me if I’m wrong. 

I’m very concerned. 

Please reach out to a healthcare provider and stay in touch. 😘

No I haven’t had any follow up with the hospital, I was just sent home 2 days later. I was thinking to make an appointment with my GP in a week or so.

My surgery was done on the NHS, it was cancelled twice before I eventually went in due to no beds being available.  My scar looks fine and the bruising is going. I really need to stop this leaking though I’m having to get Tena ladies.

Thank you for replying it is comforting to have support out there.

Sarah

xx

Hi Sarah.

I apologize for the delay. 

Certainly make an appointment with your GP as you’re considering. I am so sorry that you were sent home with no instructions, emergency contact information for you to reach out to, at least a follow up call from a nurse after your release.  During your visit with your GP, you may consider asking for a referral for a gynecologist. Again, these are only suggestions. 

Please stay in touch.

Hugs 

Thank you so much, and the HRT is another this I need to discuss. Will let you know.

Xxx