Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => All things menopause => Topic started by: Bluedonkey on September 30, 2025, 06:03:29 PM
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Hello all
I will be having the above to include removal of cervix, tubes, ovaries and uterus via laparoscopic surgery, both as preventative (lost my dear mum to endometrial cancer) and to alleviate symptoms/improve quality of life.
I am already on HRT (still in peri) and will be stopping before surgery due to family history of blood clots and stroke but keen to resume as soon as I can after
Can anyone advise on mobility following laparoscopic surgery? I am 46 and have a 14 and 11yr old (both autistic) who need a lot of support and so trying to plan in advance with realistic expectations. My wonderful husband is a real support and will of course be there, but given they come to me as "Mum" would be good to know what to expect.
With thanks
BD
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The best information is on the royal college of gynaecologists and obstetricians website (RCOG) - get your husband to read it as well
https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/laparoscopic-hysterectomy-recovering-well/
I had abdominal hysterectomy with BSO over 5 years ago.
It will all depend on your fitness level / physical health at time of surgery. You have to bear in mind that it takes a minimum of 6 weeks for your wounds to heal so it will be really important that you do not do any medium/heavy lifting during that time including light lifting in the early days. No cleaning, no changing the bed, no lifting things to and from washing machine. You are likely to feel very tired the first few weeks and maybe beyond. It’s normal, it’s major surgery. It’s also important to stay active and for example walk but don’t stay on your feet too long to avoid downward pressure. I couldn’t walk very far at all the first few days and increased a bit daily.
Your bladder is likely to feel irritated initially. A bit like cystitis, ie urge to pee. That passes after a few weeks. It gets better as the days pass. That’s something I didn’t know would happen. You might be constipated initially, learn the breathing tips (singing, whistling types).
You don’t need to stop your HRT if you are on the gel or patches as there is no risk of blood clots on them. Only if you are on oral estrogen. No risk with micronised progesterone either. Make sure you are your own advocate after your surgery. I’m on estrogen patches 100 (I started on 50 and increased to 75 and then 100 - as I grow older I might reduce) and micronised progesterone that I take every other day. It is usually not prescribed after surgery but I find it calming and my gp is really happy to prescribe. I’m also on testosterone.
I was 55 when I had mine done and still peri. the best thing ever.