Preparing for Fibroid Surgery: What I Wish I Knew (and What I’m Glad I Did)

When I look back at my journey, from the MRI scans in Dr. O’Ryan’s office to the day I emerged from surgery with a new sense gratitude and wisdom. And I want to share that wisdom, especially with anyone standing where I once stood: anxious, under-informed, and trying to plan life around a body that was screaming for relief.

My Procedure & Recovery: What Happened and How I Felt

My open myomectomy was a turning point, and I am thankful every day for Dr. Serena, Dr. O’Ryan, and the whole surgical team. I had mine under general anesthesia, so I woke up groggy, foggy, and a little out of it. For the first day, there was light bleeding and some fluid leakage—yes, they pump your uterus with fluid during the procedure, and yes, it’s as strange as it sounds. But the pain? Manageable. I only needed Advil and Tylenol at first.

The next few days brought some cramping, probably from the IUD insertion that happened at the same time. I took a couple sick days, not because I was down, but because I could. and my body needed the space to start healing.

Recovery Timeline: Real Talk

Here’s a realistic picture of what to expect:

• The first few days, rest is everything. You’ll likely have some bleeding, fluid, cramps, and fatigue. Let someone drive you home and take it slow.
• The first week, light activity is fine, but don’t push it. Working from home is usually doable, but don’t expect to go full speed.
• Weeks two to four, your body starts to ease back into normal rhythms. You might still have some spotting or discharge. Keep your care team in the loop.
• Months one to three, energy comes back, cycles settle, and the worst of the symptoms begin to fade.
• By month nine or so, I felt like a new person. I kicked habits that were tied to my old symptoms, my energy stabilized, and I finally felt balanced.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Write everything down. You deserve answers. A few things I asked:

• How long will fluid discharge last?
• When can I safely return to school or work?
• What symptoms are normal during recovery?
• Will my body or cycles change afterward?

Emotional Healing Matters Too

Physically, recovery might be smoother than you expect. Emotionally, it’s a different path. I still look at the photos from before surgery, remembering how much my body was carrying, how much joy and confidence it stole. It’s surreal, but I don’t cry from sadness anymore—I cry from triumph.

Final Thoughts

If you’re preparing for surgery while juggling life, school, or a new job, I see you. You are not alone. Take your time. Prepare your questions. Speak openly with your doctors.

And remember:
We don’t just survive this.
We overcome it.

I did.
And so will you. 💜