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Gynaecology Services - Hysterectomy

Support Groups

Support Group Meeting this Year

TBA

  7.15 pm to 9.00 pm.

Includes Tea and Coffee. Donations gratefully accepted.

(Speakers maybe subject to change)

Wednesdays to note and be remembered!!

All Welcome

Who are we?

We are a small and friendly group of women who got together over a common need. We all have our own individual story and the thing that binds us together is our having or having had a hysterectomy.

The need arose for us to share, in a caring atmosphere, some of the questions not always thought of, voiced or easily discussed with busy professionals.

Generally this time is emotional and distressing for the woman, her partner and family. Part of our aim is to b there for support - perhaps over the phone, maybe to meet and share over a cup of coffee - and to know what further questions may need to be asked so an individual is able to make clear, factual and informed decisions.

With clear information about procedures and what full recovery may entail, a decision of what may lie ahead can be made with conscious awareness. The choice may be to hold off, or it may be to carry on with a hysterectomy.

A small support group, with a big impact

Things to Consider

Have I had a check-up? (general, smear test, bone scan, etc)

  • Can I get a second opinion?

  • What further information do I need?

  • Who else do I need to talk to?

  • What books would be helpful to read now?

  • What about alternative therapies, such as naturopathy or acupuncture?

  • Am I ready to make a decision?

  • What can I do to help myself?

  • Have I considered changing my diet and / or taking more exercise?

  • How much alcohol, coffee, cigarettes and other drugs do I consume?

  • Do I try to fit in any kind of relaxation or meditation (i.e. time for myself) during my day?

Going to Hospital

  • What will be done?

  • Who will care for me during my stay?

  • What can I expect in hospital?

  • Who can I see to get more information and a booklet about Hospital and Hysterectomy?

Is there anything I can do to aid my recovery (mind, emotions, spirit and body)?

After the Operation

  • What are the possible short and long term effect?

  • How do I accept that I am now infertile?

  • How long will it take me to recover, get back to a "normal" life (drive a car, return to work, perform daily activities)?

  • What about menopause - do I know what to expect? What are the signs of menopause?

During your recovery having the support of your partner and friends is important, especially where there are young children to care for. Returning to sexual activity with your partner may undergo a change. If this is a concern please seek assistance to this common reaction. Remember not to "rush around" after your operation so look after yourself - take time, and take care. We can be contacted by phone on:

Elizabeth 389-9644 - chrystal@witte.co.nz
Marian 344-3119 mar_powell@inet.net.nz
Chrystal 355-4475

We are available to talk with you individually, or as a group. Which women’s group do you know of who are interested in learning more about health, hysterectomy and increasing their well- being? Contact us today to organise a date, time, topic, and we will be there.

The Hysterectomy Support Group is a forum where women can go to talk and be listened to regarding any problems and concerns they may have regarding their surgery. It provides a supportive environment for women to share their experiences.

Partners are also able to contact the support group and may find it very helpful.

Organisations

We hope you have found this booklet useful. If you have any further queries do not hesitate to call any of the organisations listed below:

The Pre and Post Hysterectomy Support Group has been recognised by:

  • Canterbury DHB

  • Canterbury Women’s Health Division

  • National Cervical Screening Programme

  • Social Work Counselling Services

  • FPA, GP’s and Specialists.

"Know thyself for once we know ourselves,


we may learn how to care for ourselves, otherwise we never shall" - Socrates

The application of …
"KNOWLEDGE IS POWER"
Sir Francis Bacon

Hysterectomy Support Group
P O Box 5329
Christchurch
Marian: 344-3119
Chrystal : 355-4475
Stephen : 355-4475
Elizabeth phone: 389-9644

Continence Advisors (through Nurse Maude Association)
P O Box 36-126
Merivale
Christchurch
Phone: 375-4273
 
New Zealand Endometriosis Foundation
Phone/Fax: (06) 359-2613
Phone: 0800 733-277

Christchurch Infertility Society Inc
P O Box 29-188
Christchurch
 
The Women's Health Information Centre
Suite 80, Cashel Chambers
224 Cashel Street
Christchurch
Phone: 379-6970
Hours: Monday 9.30am - 1.00pm
Tuesday - Friday : 1.00pm - 4.30pm
 
Social Work and Counselling Service
Ground Floor
Christchurch Women’s Hospital
2 Riccarton Avenue, Christchurch
phone: 364-4440

Chaplaincy Service
phone: 364-4722

More info about Gynaecology Services
more info arrow General Information
more info arrow Cervical Screening
more info arrow Colposcopy
more info arrow Hysteroscopy
more info arrow Hormone Replacement
more info arrow Menopause
more info arrow Radiation Treatment
more info arrow Osteoporosis
More info about a Hysterectomy
more info arrow Introduction
more info arrow What is a Hysterectomy
more info arrow Types of Hysterectomy
more info arrow Medical Conditions
more info arrow Going Home
more info arrow Support Groups