Anxiety Before Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy, for many women, is often the end of a long journey of suffering. They’ve had pain, bleeding, loss of energy and so many other symptoms for SO LONG that the people around them expect them to feel nothing but relief. Makes sense, right?
But then they get their surgery scheduled and feel nothing but ANXIETY.
There is no way around pre-operative anxiety. Surgery is scary. You won’t feel 100% better until you’re safely on the other side.
That said, here are the most common anxieties my clients express and my take on them after working with hundreds of women before and after surgery.
“I’m scared I’m doing the wrong thing.” Coming to the decision to have a hysterectomy is HARD for most women. You’ve probably waited a long time, been through a lot of suffering, and read countless blog posts and forums. Still the decision feels so final. I advise my clients to make a list of all the reasons they’re choosing to have a hysterectomy. Most likely, the pros far outweigh the cons.
“I’m scared it will do more harm than good.” There are SO MANY horror stories out there. First of all… STOP reading them. Having a hysterectomy does not rearrange your bone structure, it doesn’t mean you’re destined for future pain, prolapse or peeing your pants. For so many women, it’s the key to unlocking the freedom they deserve.
“My sex life/fitness/career/etc. will never be the same again.” You’re right… it can be BETTER! Put the horror stories down.
“I’ll be in pain or something will happen during surgery.” Complications during hysterectomies are INCREDIBLY RARE. Of course do your due diligence in choosing an experienced surgeon but after that, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. You’re more likely to suffer during a car accident and if you’re concerned about pain, bring someone who is comfortable advocating for you while you’re at the hospital.
Your life isn’t ending because you’re having a hysterectomy. With the right healthcare team it can be the start of your best years yet.