Well, today, we’re going to talk about my girlie parts…or lack there of as it’s officially been one year since my hysterectomy.
I wrote this down before the holidays as a topic for today, but in the back of my mind I kind of thought “who cares?!”. Buuuuut during my two week Christmas break, I received FOUR emails from blog readers asking me questions as they’re about to have one (or one sweet reader was in the post-op phase), so it reenforced to me that we should do a quick chat about how things have been going since the big H. Also, I saved all of the questions from my Q&A post and many were about “yeah, but I want to hear how things are going after it’s been a year”, so I’ll answer those too.
One thing that I always want to point out is that I know so many of you have had (or are about to have) hysterectomies due to terrible things like cancer, and your healing process and procedure looks very different from mine. I do not, in any way, want to make light of what you’re going through. I am also so terribly sorry to those of you who are not ready for your hysterectomy. Honestly, my heart breaks for so many of you as I know this surgery is really just a stop on a long road of other health issues and/or you’re not ready to have one for so many reasons. I am so terribly sorry. I want you to know that upfront.
Today’s post is for those of you who are having hysterectomies for a variety of “other” reasons. Honestly? It’s a super short post because 12 months later, I’m feeling great.
First, let’s backtrack…
December 6, 2019, I had my robotic hysterectomy.
If you missed my original post where I explain the “why I had one” along with all of the specific details, make sure you read that first HERE.
Robotic (sometimes called mechanical) hysterectomies are where they make four little incisions in your stomach (three you can see and one in your bellybutton) and then robotically identify and break up what’s coming out. I had everything removed (uterus, ovaries, tubes…all of it), and the entire procedure only lasted 20 minutes! Four little incisions, and we were all done. I spent one night in the hospital and was home the next day.
Here I am one week post-op. I was still sore, moving slowly and unable to lift heavy things, but I was walking daily and healing fairly quickly.
At the 6 month mark, I did a follow up post with a Q&A that you can read HERE and then on December 6th, the one year anniversary, I took this pic…
…12 months later, and I’m feeling better than ever! I honestly NEVER think about it (which is so nice because it also means I never think about periods, bleeding, and that stuff either!).
Now what has made me feel so great this last year? Probably hormone replacement therapy.
I have been sharing HRT with you guys for several years now as I’ve been doing it myself for almost 8 years. You can read my HRT Q&A with all of the reasons why I do it, what I think about it, which different versions I’ve tried (I’ve tried so many!) and so much right HERE. You can also read my first post on HRT HERE.
I began my current HRT regimen a few months before my hysterectomy to help me get me and my hormones going in the right direction before my girlie parts were removed. Since my surgery, I’ve continued on the same regimen and right now, all of my levels are in the optimal range. I give myself one injection a week, and that’s it! No pills, no creams, no doctor appointments (just routine bloodwork to make sure my levels are maintaining and/or improving).
Here are the 10 most common questions you guys had for me 12 months post-op about not just the actual surgery, but the twelve months of HRT too.
1: Have you gained weight?
My weight has remained the same throughout this year. I know a lot of you were worried about that being a negative side effect, but honestly, that hasn’t been a problem for me. If anything, I have more energy and feel less drained, so I’m running further and overall, feel much healthier.
2: Do you still need to go for an annual exam?
Yes! I was unsure about this too, but yes, you should still have an annual exam even after your hysterectomy. For years, I was under the impression that the annual exam only checked for certain cancers, but actually, it checks for many other things that we, as women, need checked routinely. Make sure you still get your annual exam.
3: Have you gone through menopause?
Once my parts were removed, I was immediately considered post-menopausal. Many things (night sweats, hormonal acne, poor sleep quality, lack of energy, lack of a sex drive) that are common with menopause can be corrected with the use of HRT. I used to experience many of those symptoms which was one of the main reasons I originally began HRT.
4: Do you get night sweats?
Nope! For me, night sweats and hormonal acne were both signs that my hormones were out of control. I honest to goodness don’t think I’ve had a single night sweat since my surgery.
5: Is your mood stable?
Ha! I think so? Andrew and my kids would probably tell you that my mood still fluctuates…but what busy mom’s mood doesn’t?! I do feel VERY MUCH like I’m less irritable, less sad, have fewer down days and am overall way more constantly upbeat now that my hormones are stable. Without PMS affecting me monthly as well, I feel overall much more in control of my emotions, mood and temperament.
6: Are you glad you did the surgery?
YES!! So many friends told me before the surgery that it would be the best thing I ever did…and now that I’m 12 months post-op, I couldn’t agree more. I have zero regrets.
7: Do you ever think you’ll get off HRT?
I do not. I know that some women remove their ovaries and don’t follow up with HRT, but for me, after talking to my doctors, I don’t think that will ever be an option. I know it sounds daunting and overwhelming and can be expensive, but I’m so glad I’m doing it following my surgery and do not ever see myself stopping. (I’ll put details at the bottom about my specific provider as I think he’s genius and worth an email and/or phone call.)
8: One year out, what do you wish you would have known?
That it wasn’t as scary as I had imagined. (Again, this isn’t for those of you having hysterectomies as a part of another problem like cancer.) I was sore, I was slow to workout and be active again, but overall, I thought it was easier than when I had my tonsils taken out when I was 28. I know everyone is different, but I was more nervous about this procedure and yet it felt easier. I think getting up and walking immediately really helped me. I would rest for most of the day right after the surgery, but would also walk each day too. By the 4 week mark, I was even cleared to begin running and lifting light weights.
9: Do you still struggle with bladder leakage?
Yes, but that’s on my list to get “fixed” in 2021. In my 6 month post-op post, I mentioned how I had never experienced bladder leakage but that it’s the one negative side effect to my hysterectomy and SO MANY OF YOU were encouraging and gave me great advice and suggestions. Unfortunately, that post landed right at the beginning of COVID, so I tabled that “to do” until things calmed down a bit. Thanks to YOUR encouragement, I am going to work on that issue this year. (Seriously read the comment section of that post if you struggle with this too!).
10: How long before you felt normal again?
I had my surgery on December 6th and by January 6th, I felt totally normal. The only time I was reminded of the surgery was getting out of bed from the laying position. That still felt “off” for about 6 weeks. I was working out, driving, taking care of my kids and living my normal life without any complications. It truly didn’t take long at all.
I posted this on my 6 month post, but I want to share it again. I get it…giving yourself an injection perhaps sounds crazy/scary/weird/insane, but for me, HRT has been a major part of my well being over the last few years and finally finding a method that is easy and effective has really improved my quality of life. I was encouraged to get my hormones checked out by a friend at church and over the years, I’ve met more women who have begun HRT only to truly feel like their best selves (women of all ages!), so I want that for you too. You can find Dr. Riegel at The Riegel Center. He assures me that he and his staff treat patients all over the US, so even if you’re not local, don’t feel like you can’t reach out. I’m a big believer in skin checks, mammograms and women taking control of their own health and well being. Having a hysterectomy and getting my ovaries removed was made so much easier because I already had a firm hormone replacement therapy plan in place.
Twelve months later, and I’m feeling like my best self (probably better!). When I was considering my options and looking for information, I was fortunate to have several friends who had already done this, but I know some of you might feel alone. I just want you to know that even though it is major surgery and the decision should be taken very seriously and only when completely necessary…that it was a positive experience for me. If you have very specific medical questions about the surgery, contact your OBGYN (just a reminder, I changed OBs to find one who specializes in this type of surgery, don’t be afraid to get multiple opinions!) or if you have HRT questions, ask Dr. Riegel. If you have “Shay questions”, I can handle those! I will try and answer them all in the comment section of today’s post.
Here are quick links for you to reference from me as well:
Hormone Replacement Therapy PART ONE
Hormone Replacement Therapy PART TWO
Original Hysterectomy Post
Hysterectomy & HRT Q&A
Hysterectomy 6 Month Post-OP
I’m so thankful for this community! Thank YOU for letting me feel comfortable enough to share this stuff with you. xx
Erika Slaughter says
So much information in this post!! Hope this helps many reading today!
B says
Hey.. can you give me a “rough” estimate of what you spend on your shots monthly?
I’m sure it varies from person to person but I’m curious of the ball park cost.
Mix and Match Mama says
I pay for mine more like quarterly (as needed, they send me refill prescriptions, but it’s about that). Call your healthcare provider and insurance company. See if you can get a portion taken care of!
Maggie Eterno says
I had a hysterectomy 8 years ago. I was 29 and had to have it due to some complications. But it was by far the best thing I ever did! Changed my life! They did leave my ovaries because I was only 29. But I think I may look I to Hormone therapy now that I’m 37 and I’m having some issues (hormonal).
So glad you are doing great!!!
Elspeth says
Thanks for sharing your story with us!!!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Maggie Brown says
Very helpful post! I would love a similar post on your experiences with any cosmetic surgeries. First hand information is incredibly helpful. ?
Sarah says
Please let us know how you do after you work on your bladder leak issue. Would love to hear what was successful for you! Thanks for sharing!
Brooke says
Does insurance cover any of the HRT?
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve done several different versions of HRT with different providers and sometimes, I had some of the process covered and sometimes, I did not. I wish I could give you a concrete answer, but I think, you’ll probably pay out of pocket for a lot of it. You should ask though! I certainly don’t know all the answers!
Bev says
This is why you are such a loved blogger. You cover all the bases with honesty, discretion, and thoughtfulness. Happy New Year, Shay! Looking forward to following along with you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much, Bev!!! xo
Libby says
I had a partial hysterectomy @ 36, and it was a life changer. Like you, I felt so much better afterwards. I had so many symptoms that I didn’t realized were from my bum girlie parts. I don’t miss my monthly period AT ALL!! Thanks for sharing your experience.
Lisa says
this came at the perfect time. I go next friday for my hysterectomy. I’m 37, thankfully had my kids early and am ready, but like you, i think i’m hyping it up in my head more than i need to. I’ve already had two c-sections and two laprascopic for endometriosis so i feel like i know what to expect. any surgery is a little scary but thanks for sharing your recovery. I know everyone is different but it’s hard to find womens real life experience online.
Mix and Match Mama says
Lisa, keep me posted on how you’re doing post-op! I hope it goes so smoothly!!!! I really think you’ll be so glad you did it!!
SC says
Thank you for sharing!
Meleah Thomas says
I live in SC and am now a patient of Dr. Riegel because of your post! For others who live outside of Texas it is super easy to work with Dr. Riegel from a distance!
Hysterectomy is on my list of things to do, too…but, COVID. HRT really is great and I am so thankful to have found a wonderful provider. I feel like he’s super qualified and trust him because of his years of experience being an OBGYN. Thank you so much for your recommendation.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh! Meleah! That’s awesome! I’m so happy you connected with him too!!
Julie says
I had mine December 2, 2014 and was back at work as a teacher January 5. It was hands down the absolute best surgery decision for me. Not one single regret. As Shay mentioned, you must advocate for yourself and your health. Only you know how you feel. Doctors guide but ultimately it’s up to you. I’m very thankful that I had zero complications.
Lisa Elliott says
I must admit that I laughed out loud at question #5 — it is a good question! I’m 62 now and had a hysterectomy at 42 (best thing ever) and my husband would say that the doctor “cut the meanness right out of me”! I had horrible PMS – a week of it each month and horrible periods (another full week) so I felt like after the hysterectomy I actually felt a million times better!
Lori says
Will you please share what you will be doing to “fix” the bladder leakage issue? This affects so many women and often we just accept it rather than discuss it with a doctor. Thanks for sharing so much of your life with us…even the “delicate” topics!
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t decided what I’m going to do yet…but I’m going to do something and will share it. The comment section of that post had a multitude of ideas. My first step is going to be discussing it with my OB at my upcoming annual appointment!
Sheaffer Sims says
I know this post will help a lot of people!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Thank you for the thorough update, Shay! Hope you’re doing well! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Jill says
Hi!! So I read all your posts on this topic at least 10 times. I had a hysterectomy(kept ovaries), cystocele repair, rectocele repair and urethra sling on December 14. Thankfully this was all on my time and my decision, I feel for women who are faced with much more difficult issues. I had pelvic floor prolapse which honestly I didn’t think happened to 40 year olds who are physically in shape but clearly it does ??. I’m 4 weeks out and truly feel great. My surgery was done robotically by an amazing urogynecologist and I have 4 teeny incisions. The decision didn’t come lightly for me, I kept wondering if I’d ever want more kids but afterwards he told me everything in there was way worse than expected and I made the right decision. He told me 3-4 weeks post op I’d realize how messed up I was and he was right. I had gotten so used to my issues and now that I’m fixed I feel like a new person. Even though I kept my ovaries I still may look into HRT. It can’t hurt to at least see where my hormones are at.
Love your honestly on this topic and making me feel less scared to have my surgery. ♥️♥️
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Jill!! I’m so glad you’re doing well!!!
Roya Bushong says
Well, now I want to do HRT (and talk to my ob/gyn about a hysterectomy). I’m your age and finished having children. I HATE my period and all the headache that comes with it. Thank you for being so open about your experience! Would you mind sharing if your on estrogen-only or combination therapy (maybe you’ve said before and I’ve missed it)? My only concern is increased cancer risk. Thanks again!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m on a combo of testosterone and estrogen!
Chrissy says
I was so thankful for your posts last year! I kept referring to them as I’m 5 weeks post-op from my hysterectomy. You eased my nerves and then I was like, ok, Shay walked a mile slowly the first day…me too. The 4th day, Shay went to Target, ok, I can do the grocery. Hahaha! None of my girlfriends had had one, so you were my go-to. Now my bestie is scheduled for February, and I got this for her. 🙂 Also, your scars look great! I’m using scar away as I heard silicone is good for surgical scars. Did you use something similar?
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, I could cry! I’m so glad you’re doing well and found comfort in my experience. As for my scars, I don’t remember what I used, but it was the post-op ointment I came home with. It wasn’t Neosporin but it was similar.
Lynne Thomas says
Hi, I am wondering how your intimate life is? Any differences?
Mix and Match Mama says
There have been zero negative affects due to my surgery!
Robin says
Thank you for sharing your journey, it helps so much! Are you doing bio identical hormone replacement therapy? I was wondering if that’s the kind Dr. Riegel specializes in.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!!
Joanne says
Just over 3 months post- surgery here and I am so so so glad I bit the bullet and had my surgery. My recovery was a bit longer than your (though it sounds like I was doing too much too fast– because I immediately felt great!). I can remember my nurse telling me to slow down that very night as I was up and walking/ bouncing. I honestly had less pain post op than I did walking in that morning. Since they left my ovaries in I haven’t had to deal with HRT which sounds like it might be a whole other ball game.
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m so happy you’re doing well!!!
Laura says
I go tomorrow to talk to my gyn about a hysterectomy. I’m hoping it’s the answer to many years of not quite feeling my best. It’s so hard and time consuming but necessary to take care of ourselves so we can continue to take good care of our families. Thank you for sharing!
Andrea Hooper says
Did you put anything on your incision scars to make them fade so much? They look like they are barely noticeable!
Mix and Match Mama says
I didn’t. They’re so tiny. That was one of the reasons I selected robotic and went with this doctor. He was known for doing this well.
KELLI BLACK says
I am an aesthetic nurse, at my medspa we offer a procedure called ThermiVa. This helps tremendously with stress incontinence! A series of 3 are recommended, its quick, painless and no downtime! Check your area for this. You won’t regret it!
Vanessa says
Thank you for sharing, Shay! I have been following you a number of years now and your posts about your hysterectomy last year helped me get over my fear of having the surgery. I had my hysterectomy on Dec 15th and I’m doing well. As mentioned in a previous comment, I too kept thinking about your experience and how soon you began walking and returned to normal life. It has motivated me to do the same. I am three weeks post-op and am walking 1-2 miles a day! I am also trying to rest and heal so that I can return to my workout routine. Thank you for being an encouragement and inspiration to me!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Vanessa! I’m so happy you’re doing well right now! Thank you so much for sharing!!
Sara says
Speaking of girlie parts, I had my first mammogram last summer and it was SO much less intimidating and pain free than I imagined!!
Everyone made me feel so comfortable and like it was just another doctor visit. It was WAY less uncomfortable than other annual things we have to do as women! Ahem…
Anyway, I opted for a 3D mammogram and it was totally covered by my insurance. The nurse told me even if it wasn’t covered, the out of pocket cost would be $25-$60. I feel like it is totally worth it esp. if you have dense breast tissue.
Just thought I’d encourage anyone (esp. those 40 +) who is putting off this vital test to JUST DO IT!
Tracy says
I would love to read what is suggested for the bladder leakage. I’ve mentioned this multiple times to my doctor. They have never suggested anything other than a “sorry honey”. It is a very frustrating thing.
Mix and Match Mama says
If you head to my 6 Month Post-Op post and read the comment section, you will find so many recommendations!!
Jill says
Tracy, I have not experienced this but have been reading recently that a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist can help with this.
I had no idea there was even a specialty in physical therapy for this! Apparently it is very helpful with many issues we face as women and those things are sometimes hard to discuss even with our doctors. I hope this helps!
Jena says
How would you compare recovery (and the initial pain) to a csection?
Mix and Match Mama says
I thought it was a million times easier! My incisions are so much smaller and less invasive…PLUS, I had all the time in the world to sleep and recover and didn’t have a baby to also take care of.
Mrs. Amen says
I just rescheduled my hysterectomy to later this year. I’m having mine because I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and it was an estrogen positive cancer. Now that I’m done with treatments my oncologist said I should strongly consider a hysterectomy and oophrectomy (ovaries out too). I’m gonna be glad to get it done, but won’t be doing any hormone replacement- in fact, I’m doing the exact opposite – hormone blockers. Thank you for sharing, I was hesitant because I’m just starting to feel like myself again and I didn’t want to feel terrible again for such a long time. Now I’m getting my new boobs first, then the rest of lady bits out once I recover from getting my new boobs.
Mix and Match Mama says
I am so sorry that you’ve been going through all of this! I hope you continue to feel like yourself and recover well from your next surgery. God bless YOU!!
Amanda says
Almost a year ago I went to my gyn and expressed that I felt like I was going thru menopause. She said she would check but the fact I had just turned 40 and had a five year old she was more concerned it was my thyroid. Needless to say it came back as premenopausal. She suggested a hysterectomy but all surgeries had been cancelled last March. I asked about HRT and was told I was too young to start, does anyone have tips on how to advocate for this? They put me on bc and it does help but I can tell the weeks of my period – hot flashes, tiredness, etc. I go back in a few weeks since it’s been a year to discuss the hysterectomy route and will say that I appreciate this follow up! I have been following for awhile
Mix and Match Mama says
Can you go to another provider for a second opinion? That would be my first suggestion!