How to support a loved one having a hysterectomy
We are finally three days pre op and I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting on my hysterectomy journey. One thought that kept popping up was “what has and what hasn’t helped me these last three months?” I noticed plenty of advice on things that can help but I haven’t seen much on the things that don’t help someone going through medical trials and tribulations.
Chronic conditions and autoimmune diseases can already on their own be hard to endure and incredibly isolating. What’s worse is whenever you’re nearing a medically needed procedure and everyone has something laced in judgement/doubt to say about it. The topic of women’s reproductive rights is already a ✨sensitive✨ subject to most. Many let their political or religious views on a woman’s body act as a blindfold so they speak their share while allowing themselves to remain blind to how much their words are wounding the already wounded. Talk about kick em while they’re down! 🪦
I went through a dark time as I’ve been in a pre surgical treatment since early January. Especially in the beginning whenever I received reactions regarding the upcoming procedure I felt incredibly isolated. My uterus was killing me but people didn’t see what I was enduring, they only saw my age. Even as I explained why it was needed I still faced the dreaded question of “are you sure?” More times than I can count. For someone whom was already mourning something that I knew would never be an option for me and one miscarriage, hearing so many ask that as if this were an elective cosmetic procedure was like a dagger in the heart. You never know what someone is carrying so for those with loved ones going through medical procedures, hold empathy over judgement. We have nothing to gain from judging others so why pour our energy weighing others down with negativity when we could be lifting each other up?
I feel so blessed for my friends that have been checkin in on me and helped pull me out of that dark place of isolation that I had fallen into. It really showed me a clear picture of night🌙 and day☀️ of how those around us impact our recovery and our conditions as we face these medical challenges. Kind words and small actions can mean the world to someone more than we ever know. 💕
#hysterectomy #embracevulnerability #unfiltered #womensrights #positivevibes
Supporting a loved one through a hysterectomy requires sensitivity and understanding. Acknowledging their feelings and the emotional turmoil they may face is crucial. It's vital to check in on how they are feeling both physically and emotionally, and to reassure them of your support without judgment. Avoid bringing up inappropriate conversation topics that might remind them of their loss. Instead, focus on uplifting dialogue, helping with errands, or simply being a listening ear. Additionally, remember that chronic conditions can lead to feelings of isolation. Offer empathy and encourage open conversations. Celebrate their strength by reminding them that their journey, while difficult, is part of a healing process. Demonstrating kindness through small gestures—like bringing food or medicines, or sending an uplifting message—can have a significant positive impact. Remember, this experience is sensitive, and the right words can make all the difference. Together, we can help foster a supportive environment for those undergoing such life-altering procedures.