Chicago doctor gives tips for Hysterectomy Recovery
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure for the removal of the uterus. This surgery may be recommended to treat gynecological cancers, pelvic inflammatory disease, a prolapsed uterus, endometriosis, or fibroids. If you are considering a hysterectomy in Chicago, Illinois, your doctor may provide you with hysterectomy recovery tips. This ensures you are informed and prepared for your upcoming procedure.
Tips for hysterectomy recovery
There are three hysterectomy methods: abdominal, vaginal, and laparoscopic. An abdominal hysterectomy involves a five- to seven-inch incision and sutures, whereas a vaginal hysterectomy involves a small incision and internal stitches. With laparoscopic hysterectomy, small incisions are made in the abdomen through which a laparoscope is inserted.
Regardless of the type of hysterectomy you require, there are general recovery tips to keep in mind.
- Eat a healthy diet. Make sure to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and regain your strength after surgery. If you experience constipation, increasing your fiber intake may give you relief.
- Rest. Get adequate rest, pace yourself, and understand that fatigue is normal. Depending on your job, you might need to take a few weeks off from work to recover from your hysterectomy.
- Take your medications as recommended. Antibiotics and pain medication may be prescribed. Antibiotics help your body heal and avoid infections, while pain medication helps minimize your discomfort. Take both according to your physician’s recommendations.
- Limit your physical activity. Usually, specialists recommend waiting six weeks after a hysterectomy to resume regular exercise. Even if you are feeling well, your body needs a few weeks to heal.
- Walk. Although high-impact exercising is not allowed, walking is one of the best ways to help your body, but make sure to start slowly. Walking daily helps your body recover and heal.
- Avoid housework. Do not use an upright vacuum as that pulls on your abdominal muscles. Do not lift anything over twenty pounds and avoid any activity that strains your abdominal wall.
- Avoid sexual intercourse. Sexual activity should be avoided for six to eight weeks or until you get approval from your gynecologist.
Find a Hysterectomy Doctor near you
For more hysterectomy recovery tips, contact Northwestern Women’s Health Associates S.C. in Chicago, IL, today. Call us at 312-440-9400.
