Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi has shared an update with fans following a major surgery, revealing she underwent a hysterectomy six months after her cervical cancer diagnosis. In an emotional video posted to Instagram, the 38-year-old "Jersey Shore" star detailed the procedure and her recovery process.
Polizzi explained that the surgery involved the removal of her uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. Doctors also removed parts of her vagina to ensure all affected areas were addressed. Her ovaries were preserved to avoid early menopause. "I told you guys in general I’m not good with pain, and I’ve really been trying to be tough, but it’s not great," Polizzi stated in the video. "And the reason is because we did that C-section cut, and he obviously ended up taking out the uterus, my cervix and then some parts of my vagina just to make sure we get everything."
![Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi in a hospital bed after her hysterectomy.]( "Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi in a hospital bed after her hysterectomy.")
She described feeling nervous and anxious leading up to the procedure, recounting the steps of preparing for surgery, including being hooked up to machines and using a special cleansing wipe. "My heart’s starting to race, I’m getting anxiety, and I’m getting the shakes. And then right when I go in, it’s just like, ‘Oh my god, like it hit me, like holy s---. I’m going under surgery. I’m losing my uterus and my cervix, fallopian tubes, half my vagina, like holy s---,’" she said. Polizzi became emotional, describing herself as "so scared" and unsure of what would happen.
Polizzi also sought treatment for diastasis recti, a condition where abdominal muscles separate, common after childbirth. She has three children.
She expressed her motivation for sharing her health journey publicly, aiming to provide a platform for women who experience similar health issues and may feel alone. "It’s a scary thing and a lot of us women deal with it, and no one really talks about it. So I’m here to give that platform for all of us ladies," she explained. She noted that some followers are scheduled for similar surgeries and she hopes her experience will offer some insight and reassurance.
"It’s over. I just have to deal with the pain. It’s just like any surgery. You have pain, you gotta manage it, manage it, get the pain meds, and in a couple of days, you’ll feel brand spanking new, no more periods. I don’t have to take birth control anymore. Hopefully I’ll be cancer free, and that’s it," Polizzi added.
She concluded her message by thanking her followers and urging them to prioritize their health by getting regular Pap smears.
Polizzi first announced her Stage 1 cervical cancer diagnosis in February, stating at the time that she anticipated needing a hysterectomy.