Any hysterectomy advice - before and after?

 Hi there, im 55 and just had a robotic full hysterectomy on 17th march as I had atypical abnormal cells in uterus ( now waiting on histology report to see if anything further) interesting you say about that pain, i had exactly that much of the time, I havent had it at all since the hysterectomy, I only stayed overnight in hospital was home within 22 hrs and have had minimal pain and discomfort just using paracetamol at night, I went for 1 week post op dressing change yesterday, nurse said no need for dressings healing well,just 5 little cross marks ( one in belly button unoticeable)  just remember to take time to heal, no lifting, be kind to yourself, I havent had any menopausal effects feel the same as before but I am slightly older than you at 55 and had 10 years of peri menopause last period was a year ago ( until this unexpected bleed in January this year that started this all off for me) take care of yourself and hope it all goes well x

Thank you so much. This really helps. I’ve had the coil replaced back to back for 20 years so not sure if I’ve ever been peri/menopausal. Apparently my chin hair is nothing to do with this  Is there anything you wished you’d asked before the procedure or any other advice?

I found it a good idea to write down any questions or worries I had for my situation so I didnt forget to ask or mention anything when seeing the consultant, also at pre op they wanted medical history/ allergies, my mum at 80 years old came with me bless her and she remembered things I didnt, so have that info to hand dont assume they will know all background, I personally didnt want to know too much about procedure itself as I was so worried never having had any sort of surgery, I have been so well looked after by every nurse, doctor, consultant I have seen, im so glad I did go ahead with it on their best advice, and not struggled on with coil and regular biopsies, worrying what would or could happen, I had 3 beautiful children safely and in turn from them 5 wonderful grandchildren, I dont regret at all having this done, it was definitely the right choice for me.

Thanks so much ️

Hi Samantha, 

I had my hysterectomy almost 4 weeks ago. I was also fit and healthy beforehand and think that this has been a factor in my recovering well so far. There was some pain from wind initially because they use air to inflate your abdomen for the surgery, but this did not last long. There was some pain internally, but very copable with and I used pain killers for the first week or so. I also had 5 key holes as Lovednanny. The wounds have healed well, but I have found it easier to wear dresses in these first weeks as the waist line of my jeans is at the keyhole sites. 
My advice would be to get yourself even fitter. Start pelvic floor exercises and core muscle strengthening exercises now so you are in the best place possible. The squeasy App was recommended by my hospital for the pelvic floor. 
I subscribed to MacMillan emails and received some treatment info which included 3 videos about pre-hab - preparing your body and mind for surgery and treatment. I did not get it on time for the surgery but am using it to be as fit as I can for radio / chemo. 

after 4 weeks I am back walking my dogs 30 mins a day, doing light housework and some easy meals. Everyone is different though. People tell me listen to your body and that is what I am doing. 

I cannot comment on menopause as I am 62 and past all that thank goodness. 

i wish you all the best for your surgery. 

Hi

I am a fit and healthy 56 year old . Had a full open hysterectomy (with vertical scar) on 31st October 2025. Was back to work 2 weeks later working from home as an IT project manager. 

I had 3 sessions of brachytherapy which finished 13th January.

I have just come back from a ski ing holiday and although listened to my body and took it easy was absolutely fine.

Thank you so much for this. I’ve been told today I’m having my womb removed plus lymph nodes so not sure how that will be. Thanks for the advice about the app - I’ll get that xx

Thanks so much. This is reassuring xx

Hello, I am 57 and had everything removed laproscopically at the end of November. I was home the next day and pretty functional. I live by myself and a friend stayed for the first three days but I was able to manage by myself and we went out for coffee etc before she left. I'm not sure how it worked but I don't remember having pain as such - more discomfort. Paracetamol for a couple of days was fine. The most discomfort was from the trapped air from the keyhole surgery. My CSN recommended 'Love hearts' for this and they seemed to work a treat - probably placebo but if it works....also walking around shifted the air too. I would recommend taking it easy for 3 weeks at least. You will feel tired and it will take a while to get fully back to normal. 

Love hearts! I think that will be the most niche tip I receive Thanks so much for your response.  If you don’t mind me asking, did you have lymph nodes removed too?