Melanie Verwoerd Never Waste A Good Hysterectomy

Never Waste A Good Hysterectomy

It is estimated that 1 out of every 5 women worldwide would have had a hysterectomy by the age of 55.

Yet, there is far too often a cloak of silence around the procedure.

In the year following my surgery, I decided to write a book about my journey under the title: “Never waste a good hysterectomy”. I joined a few support groups online, and it quickly became apparent that women were desperate for information about what was done to them and how to deal with the recovery process.

So, the idea of this podcast was born. Never waste a hysterectomy: the podcast is aimed at women who have either had a hysterectomy or are thinking of one. It is meant to break the cycle of silence and shame women often experience around hysterectomies. It aims to inform and possibly also entertain.

So please join me as I discuss with specialists and experts the confusing medical terminology, the physical and emotional recovery process and when to seek help. We also ask where our pelvic floor went and how to get our sexual groove back. There is even an episode for the partners of the women and how to be supportive.

Above all, this podcast is there for you to know that you are not alone. It is a way of holding your hand through your journey so that you can remain strong and brave. Because all women deserve at least that.
English South Africa Health & Fitness · Life Sciences
13 Episodes

Never Waste A Good Hysterectomy: The Trailer

It is estimated that 1 out of every 5 women worldwide would have had a hysterectomy by the age of 55. Yet, there is far too often a cloak of silence around the procedure. In the year following my surgery, I decided to write a book about my journey under…
Season 1 / Episode 0 1 min

Episode 1: Why this podcast?

At a routine gynaecological check-up, my doctor suddenly went very silent. Despite having no symptoms, a huge ovarian growth was discovered, and a few days later, a radical hysterectomy was performed. This is my story which led to the birth of this podcast.
Season 1 / Episode 1 8 min

Episode 2: You are doing what?

Medical terminology can be very confusing. In this episode, Dr Kate Chambers, a specialized gynaecologist, helps us to get to the bottom of it all. She explains the difference between a full and partial hysterectomy, the different ways of doing hysterectomies, as well as the different terminology that doctors use…
Season 1 / Episode 2 26 min

Episode 3: The anxious wait

The weeks before the operation can be a worrying time. In this episode, I talk to a psychologist, physiotherapist and a nurse about the preparations before the operation – what to pack and how to get yourself physically and mentally prepared. We also talk about how to prepare your family…
Season 1 / Episode 3 27 min

Episode 4: Anesthetic and pain relief

In this episode, Dr Caroline Gardiner, an anaesthetist, explains what happens on the day, the different forms of anaesthetic available during the procedure as well as pain relief following the operation. She also addresses issues such as gas pain, the catheter that many women fear and the importance of staying…
Season 1 / Episode 4 25 min

Episode 5: The recovery period (part 1 – the early days)

In this episode, we talk to Dr Kate Chambers, about the day of the operation, pain relief, the dreaded gas pain, when to get out of bed and how long to stay in the hospital. We also discuss how long we should wait to do things like shopping, bathing, physical…
Season 1 / Episode 5 18 min

Episode 7: To poop or not to poop… and where did my pelvic floor go?

Many women experience pelvic floor problems following a hysterectomy. Lauren Ellis, a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic floor issues, joins me to discuss all things related to pelvic floors. She also talks frankly about the dreaded poop situation and gives tips on how to resolve it. Please get in touch at…
Season 1 / Episode 7 31 min

Episode 8: How to heal emotionally

The emotional recovery after a hysterectomy is often ignored. Yet, for many women, emotional healing is as difficult as physical healing. In this gentle, supportive episode, psychologist Abraham le Roux emphasizes the need to give yourself time and heal on all levels. He also gives tips on how to take…
Season 1 / Episode 8 27 min

Episode 9: Hormone havoc

After a hysterectomy (especially if the ovaries are removed), women’s hormones can cause havoc in their lives. Yet, there is hope. Dr Erika Drewes, a functional doctor focusing on hormones, discusses why our hormones go out of whack and what can be done about it. Please get in touch at…
Season 1 / Episode 9 29 min

Episode 10 “Let’s talk sex baby” (part one – the physical recovery)

When can I have sex again? Can my cuff tear? Will it feel any different? These are just some of the questions women have about sex post-surgery. Dr Kate Chambers, a specialized gynaecologist, answers these and many other sex-related questions in this episode. Please get in touch at hysterectomypodcast@gmail.com
Season 1 / Episode 10 12 min

Episode 12: For the partners

Women often feel abandoned by their partners in the weeks after surgery. Partners, on the other hand, often feel bewildered and confused. In this episode, two men discuss what happens when your partner suddenly gets sick and require surgery. How to step up to the plate while still looking after…
Season 1 / Episode 12 29 min