big op - been offered an open hysterectomy to remove fibroids. Has anyone else gone through this?

I have suffered with fibroids all my menstrual life. I am now 52 and now I'm offered an open hysterectomy. So many fibroids ranging in size and in awkward places that they can't do key hole. Has anyone else experienced this? I haven't had a bleed for 5 months but still have pains, inflammation and groin pain affecting my walk. Bladder feels constantly pinched. I think they thought by now menopause would sort this but clearly it hasn't and they've offered to do this. I am just concerned it's got so bad they have to do it now. Been told recovery around 8-12 weeks? Just feel this is not normal?someone reassure me - has this happened to anyone else? 

  • Hi RachRaspberry13 and a warm welcome to our forum, 

    I am so sorry to hear you have suffered with fibroids for all this time - it must have caused you quite a bit of trouble and discomfort and I can imagine you are torn between wanting to find a solution to this ongoing issue and being a bit apprehensive about the prospect of having an open hysterectomy. The NHS website has useful information on what happens during a hysterectomy and how it's performed and you can also find out more there about recovery

    There are many members of our forum who have had a hysterectomy before and I hope that they will come and say hello and share their personal experience with you. 

    Wishing you the best of luck for the procedure - I hope it will all go well for you.

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator