28/05/2024
So I had a hysterectomy… it’s so funny to me that people are surprised that I’m openly talking about it, but why not? It’s a body part. No one would think twice if I talked about an appendectomy. Female health isn’t discussed enough so here I am, doing my part (and oversharing in some people’s opinion 🤷🏻♀️).
So why did I get a hysterectomy? Well, I’ve had bleeding issues for 5 years that have been getting progressively worse (26 periods a year, anyone?). I’ve also had three different instances where I’ve lost consciousness due to severe pelvic pain.
Additionally, my athletic performance over the last couple years has significantly decreased, especially on the bike. Turns out you can’t be your best when you’re super anemic 😜 Iron transports oxygen throughout your body and that’s kinda important…
I’ve had so many blood tests, inconclusive biopsies, hormone replacements, and ultrasounds over the last few years. Nothing was helping and my numbers were just getting worse. After working with 3 different amazing doctors, we decided this was the best course of action in my case.
Because I’ve had 3 c-sections, we decided a robotic hysterectomy made the most sense. No need to open me up a 4th time… Not surprisingly, there was a significant amount of scar tissue connecting my bladder to my uterus which complicated things and turned what’s usually a shorter, straightforward surgery into a 4.5 hour endeavor. It also meant I went home with a catheter for 5 days (that was the worst part by far). Coming out of anesthesia was tougher this time and I struggled with nausea the first night home. If I had to do it all over again, I would’ve opted to stay overnight in the hospital. I definitely could’ve used an IV!
It’s a long road to recovery but I’m committed. Walking is the only exercise allowed for the next 6 weeks. I’m not allowed to lift anything over 5 lbs for the first month, then 10 lbs for the second month. No biking, no running, no submerging in water for 8 weeks. Talk about cramping my style 🤦🏻♀️. But I realize that the better I take care of myself now and follow directions, the better my long-term recovery and results will be.