So, you’ve made the decision to get rid of your fibroid(s) and an open myomectomy is your weapon of choice. Just in case you’re new to this, a myomectomy is a surgical procedure that is used to remove fibroids from the uterus. See my personal story here. Although it is a relatively common procedure, it can still be intimidating for many women. No matter if you chose the myomectomy or if the myomectomy chose you, I’m sure there are a lot of feelings going on inside of your mind (and body), but you are doing what you feel is best for you, your body and your future. Going under the knife is scary, but I want to give you a list of things you can do to be ready for what’s to come. So, let’s prepare for your myomectomy.
Pray…a lot
God will not bring you to it without a plan to bring you through it. Amen? Amen! Anytime I felt anxious or afraid in the weeks leading up to my procedure, I prayed. Honey, I prayed for the surgeons, nurses, the tools/equipment, the operating table, the lights in the room, the blanket I was under, my body, my recovery, my patiently waiting husband, family and friends, literally everything. I was leaving nothing to chance lol. I vividly remember counting down from 10 (I think I only made it to 8) and feeling a huge sigh of relief. Baybee, I went into that surgery knowing I was covered by the blood.
Educate Yourself
Your doctor will (or should) tell you a lot of things, but please do yourself a favor and educate yourself about the procedure. This includes understanding what fibroids are, how they are treated and what the surgery involves. Yall, don’t be shy. Ask all of the questions. Don’t know what questions to ask? Start with these:
- Do I have any other options? Why not?
- What are the risks of this procedure?
- What type of anesthesia will be used?
- What type of scarring can I expect?
- How will this procedure affect my fertility?
Do your own research sis. Read all the articles, watch all the videos. Ask all the questions. Read to the end and you may find a helpful tool you can use.
Prepare for your recovery period
It is important to prepare for the recovery period before you have your procedure. While it is impossible to know exactly how you will feel (but I can tell you, you will be in pain), there are a lot of things you can do beforehand. This includes making arrangements for transportation to and from the hospital, as well as for any follow-up appointments. You will also need to arrange for someone to help you after the surgery, especially during the first few days. My hubby was the best nurse (yall can’t have him though). Make sure that you have everything you need at home to be comfortable during your recovery, such as extra pillows, blankets, and any necessary medical equipment. It is also a good idea to stock up on groceries and other essential items before the surgery so that you don’t have to worry about running errands during your recovery. Oh and don’t forget your box braids, or some kind of low maintenance hairstyle, because you will not be trying to mess with hair during this time.
After the surgery, you will need to take time to rest and recover. This will probably include taking time off from work or other commitments, as well as avoiding strenuous activity for a certain period of time. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about what to do during the recovery period, so it is important to follow them closely.
Follow your doctor’s instructions
Speaking of your doctor, make sure you do what they tell you to do leading up to the surgery. This may include avoiding certain medications, fasting before the surgery, and/or making other lifestyle changes. You (and hopefully your insurance company) are paying these people your GOODT hard earned money. Listen and be obedient chile. Your doctor will give you specific instructions that are tailored to your individual needs, so it is important to follow them closely.
Pack your bags
Pack light, but pack right. You’re about to be in the hospital anywhere from 1-3 days. Covid was still running rampant when I had my operation so I made sure to pack things that I did not mind leaving at the hospital (read: throwing it away). Do not forget easy to use toiletries, comfy night gowns, slide in shoes, an extra long phone charger and snacks (cause hospital food is bleh). Oh and you’re going to want a soft seatbelt pillow for your incision. You will feel all of the speed bumps & potholes on the way home and whew…it’s not fun, but this one was great for me on the way home post op. Keep reading and you’ll find a download filled with the things I packed.
Prepare emotionally
Surgery can be emotionally taxing, so it is important to prepare emotionally as well as physically. Talk to your family and friends about your concerns and fears, and consider seeing a therapist or counselor if you need additional support. It is also helpful to practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. This is also a good time to remind you again to pray…a lot.
Takeaway
Preparing for a myomectomy can be a daunting task, but it is important to be well prepared so that you can have the best possible outcome. I want you to get back and get better as soon as you can, but I want you to do it safely. Mentally prepare for what’s to come and God will handle the rest.
As mentioned above, I’ve created an editable checklist to assist you in preparing for your procedure. I added in some things that helped me. Feel free to add, delete and/or edit to fit your needs. Happy Healing!
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. If you need medical advice, please consult your doctor. I am just here to share my knowledge and my personal experience with mybroids. See what I did there (I know you liked that)?
That’s It. That’s All Yall.
J. Bai
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