As of today, it has been exactly six months since having a full hysterectomy/oophorectomy.
I have experienced many changes - some good, some not-so-great, some big, and some minute.
As you can see in the photo, my scars have healed tremendously. I have scars from prior surgeries as well but then I have five smaller scars from the laparoscopic hysterectomy - only four of which are actually visible. (The scar in my belly button is almost imperceptible).
Here are some of the changes:
• Going off of Lupron alone has been very different. I no longer have to receive that HUGE nasty injection every month. My nausea has decreased by a huge margin, my energy has increased, and my motion sickness is much much better. I can actually have a shower now and then without vomiting, I am no longer vomiting every single day, and I can get dressed in a timely manner without vomiting from the movement.
• Due to having better energy, I can actually run errands once in a while. I can go out on a date with my fiancé. I am not terrified to be in a vehicle for more than 20 minutes.
• I have had to go on some Estrace add-backs. Although I am on the lowest amount I can be on, the hormone is contributing to some perpetual swelling (from HAE). So my bust has increased by a cup and a half, and my body size itself has also increased, not at ALL affected by my diet and exercise. So clothes don't fit properly... which is frustrating... but not impossible to overcome. Also, because I am on Estrace, I am NOT allowed to be on the Tranexamic Acid anymore, which was helping to keep the body swelling under control. Double whammy.
• My sweating fits have decreased by about 60%. This is awesome!!! I can do my makeup before getting changed without the sweat melting all of the makeup off. If I stand in line I will still get a hot flash but my clothing won't be soaked through.
• I have been able to walk a bit better... Actually just move a bit better. This means that I can finally practice yoga about once a couple weeks or so again. This feels amazing.
• My pelvic pain has decreased slightly... And certain activities are not just bearable, but more enjoyable. I need less recuperation time and my body does not swell as often or as severely just because of the intensity of the pain.
• For whatever reason, my cholesterol has doubled in the past year. I am not sure if it has anything to do with the surgery, or my age, or my diet (even though it has improved dramatically over the last year), but it is now an issue that I have to deal with.
Overall, I am THRILLED with having had the surgery. My quality of life at home has increased - which was the entire point.
Unfortunately, my arthritis continues to progress and my joints have been more stiff overall. The herniated discs in my back have been super painful lately and the ribs on my right side have been incredibly painful. I am finding it harder to practice piano and sit up straight, and walking on the treadmill and any yoga poses that include my arms (whether being held up or actually putting pressure on them) wind up being excruciating. My shoulder blades take the longest to recuperate and are the FIRST joints that flare in ANY situation.
There is a possibility of trying a new biologic in the Fall for the arthritis and I really hope I don't have an allergic reaction to the medication. Fingers crossed.
Overall, the surgery was an absolute success. I still have pelvic pain and I still have some awful symptoms, but I have fewer of them AND the intensity of the pain has lessened.
I am SO incredibly happy that I pushed to get this surgery done. The reward was worth the risk. I am unbelievably grateful to the team of specialists who agreed to perform the surgery.
Best decision.
There is my update.
