How to Prepare for Your Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy may seem frightening and scary, but it doesn’t have to be. With the proper knowledge of how to prepare for your hysterectomy, you may find that it is a lot easier on your body and mind to get ready, have the procedure done, and recover. Many women find themselves needing a hysterectomy for a variety of reasons, whether they be due to Endometriosis, fibroids, abnormal bleeding, or even ovarian and uterine cancers. Whether you are getting a traditional hysterectomy or a robotic hysterectomy, there are many things to keep in mind when you are preparing for the procedure.

Become Familiar with the Types of Hysterectomies

There are two different types of hysterectomies performed that you should become familiar with during your consultation. The first type of hysterectomy performed is a laparoscopic hysterectomy, which uses tiny incisions in the belly to insert a small tube into the abdomen, where the doctor will remove the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. These small incisions make for quicker healing time.

The second type of hysterectomy is a robotic hysterectomy. A robotic hysterectomy is a somewhat newer technology that will improve healing time and reduce scarring by using a single incision in the belly button area thanks to high magnification and HD visuals.

Things to Do To Prepare for your Hysterectomy

Some of the important things to do to prepare for your upcoming hysterectomy include the following:

• Be informed. The more information you have about your upcoming procedure, the better. Getting all of this information will help you better understand the overall surgical process and recovery.

• Quit smoking. Perhaps one of the most important things you can do not just for your surgery, but your overall health is to quit smoking. Not only will this help increase your body’s ability to recover, but it will also ensure the procedure goes more smoothly.

• Lose weight if necessary. If you are overweight, it can help to lose some of that weight before your surgery. Patients who have excess weight are at risk for negative interactions with anesthesia, as well as blood loss and recovery time.

• Control other health conditions. If you have other health conditions that have not been properly controlled, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or even sleep apnea, your risks with surgery will be much higher than if those conditions are under control. If you need help controlling these conditions, talk to your doctor about what you can do to help with preparing for your upcoming surgery.

• Discuss medications. If you are currently taking medications for any medical conditions, it is important to discuss them with your doctor to make sure that they will not interact negatively with the hysterectomy procedure or the anesthesia.

• Eat and drink healthy. Proper nutrition and hydration are big keys to having a healthy recovery.

• Get your medications filled. If your doctor has prescribed you any post-op medications, be sure to take time before your surgery to get them filled, so they are available when you need them without having to worry about it at the last minute.

• Schedule time off from work. If you need to take time off of work to properly recover, be sure to do so now. Depending on how fast you recover, most patients take between two and six weeks off from work.

• Make arrangements for an easier recovery. If you have children, finding someone to help you with them or to watch them during and after your procedure can help put your mind at ease. Also, having someone available to bring your meals and get your medication can be helpful. Have someone available to take you home after the procedure, as well.

• Get plenty of sleep before your procedure. The night before your procedure, it is important to remember to get adequate sleep so that your body is able to recover better.
• Don’t eat breakfast. As tempting as it may be, it’s better to skip the morning meal before heading in for your hysterectomy.

Preparing for your hysterectomy, whether it be a robotic hysterectomy or a laparoscopic hysterectomy, is just as important as the procedure itself. Being properly prepared can help with your recovery time, and most of it just involves small changes on your part.

If you would like to learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Ghozland today.