Hysterectomy is a major procedure that removes a woman’s uterus. It can be performed as a traditional open surgery or with a laparoscope. Either way, our gynecologist in Airoli will ask you to take a break from work. If you are planning to undergo a hysterectomy or have just had it, here are a few things you must avoid to speed up your recovery and prevent complications.
What Not to Do After a Hysterectomy?
1. Avoiding Physical Strain
Lifting heavy objects (above 4-5 kgs) can strain your abdominal muscles and put pressure on your incision site. This can delay healing. Also, lifting heavy weights soon after a hysterectomy can increase your risk of developing a hernia. It’s best to seek help from family and friends during recovery, especially with regular tasks like lifting grocery bags and laundry baskets. Even after your doctor clears you for it, make sure you lift objects with your knees properly bent and back straight.
2. Refrain from Certain Foods and Drinks
You need a balanced, nutritious diet containing vitamins, minerals, and other vital nutrients that your body needs for fast recovery. A healthy diet will help with tissue repair, thus speeding up your recovery after hysterectomy. You must also limit your consumption of foods that can cause upset stomach or constipation. This includes processed foods, sugary foods, refined grains, dairy, greasy and spicy foods.
3. Avoid Constipation
Straining while passing a bowel movement can put pressure on your incision site and delay healing. Eat fiber-rich foods and drink plenty of water, around 8-10 glasses a day to prevent constipation. You can also get stool softeners to make your stool easily passable.
4. Skipping Follow-up Appointments
After hysterectomy surgery in Airoli, you will be monitored for a day or two (depending on the type of surgery). The hospital staff will monitor your vitals, check your incision, and give you instructions on how to take care of the wound before your discharge. You also need to attend your follow-up appointments to ensure you are recovering well and the wound is healing as required.
5. Ignoring Pain or Unusual Symptoms
While some pain after surgery is normal, it’s usually manageable with pain-relief medication. If you have excruciating pain, swelling, and a discharge from the incision site, these could all be the signs of an infection. It’s advisable to consult a professional healthcare provider if you experience anything unusual.
6. Engaging in Sexual Intercourse
Patients are advised to refrain from indulging in sexual activity until their wounds have completely healed and they notice no vaginal discharge. This usually happens 4-6 weeks after the procedure. It’s natural to lose the desire for having sexual intercourse immediately after surgery, but that should return to normal after recovery.
7. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking can disrupt blood flow to the incision site, delaying the healing. Likewise, alcohol might interfere with your medication. It’s best to avoid them during recovery.
Conclusion
Rest is crucial for recovery and so is your diet, light exercises, follow-up appointments, and other things that your doctor instructs. Follow these recovery guidelines and enjoy a smooth and fast recovery after hysterectomy.
