Recovery After Hysterectomy

The recovery after hysterectomy varies for each patient. However, the type of hysterectomy and the technique used play major roles in determining how fast a woman recovers from the surgery.

As an example, it would take a longer time for a patient to recover from an abdominal hysterectomy where her uterus and ovaries are removed because of cancer compared to a patient who underwent a laparoscopically assisted hysterectomy where only a portion of the uterus is removed. The former can cause more stress and also some emotional and psychological effects.

Women who undergo a hysterectomy can generally go home forty-eight hours after the procedure. Women who undergo a laparoscopically assisted hysterectomy can resume their regular activities two weeks after the surgery, while women who undergo an abdominal hysterectomy would require around six to eight weeks of recovery after hysterectomy due to the large incision.

If you have just been through a hysterectomy, here are some things you should do during your recovery after hysterectomy:

* Take pain relievers according to your doctor's prescription.

* Do restrict your movement.

* Do move unhurriedly.

* Consult your doctor if there is excessive pus or bleeding in either your vaginal or abdominal incision.

* Use heating pads, but do not leave them in direct contact with your skin while you sleep.

* Do keep from bending.

* Do try to avoid taking aspirin or any product that contains aspirin.

* Avoid dairy products.

* Do eat regularly, and eat healthy.

* Do intake multiple vitamins.

* Do take in plenty of water.

On the other hand, the following are some don'ts you should keep in mind when you're on your recovery after hysterectomy.

* Do not resume your sexual activity without your doctor's advice..

* Do not carry things that weigh at least ten pounds for about six weeks after the hysterectomy.

* Do not swim or take tub baths for at least six weeks.

* Do not resume your regular activities and house chores soon after your hysterectomy.

* Do not drive without your doctor's permission.

* Do not climb the stairs.

* Do not drink too much alcohol.