Hysterectomy - Please help

Hello Ladies,

I am in my early forties and have been suffering from fibroids since past 2 years. I have heavy bleeding and extremely painful cramps during the periods. I have bleeding for 8-9 days every month. Doctors in India and US have suggested hysterectomy has I am done having kids. My surgery is scheduled next month it is going to be laparoscopic vaginal hysterectomy. I am extremely tensed and worried about the pain after surgery. Have any of you or your friends or relatives undergone this type of surgery ? Is it very painful ? How much and what kind of pain (cramping, sharp etc) does one experience after this surgery. Please help.