Abdominal Hysterectomy Recovery

Hysterectomy is basically the surgical removal of the uterus, totally or partly. Abdominal hysterectomy is clinically defined as a surgical procedure wherein, the uterus is removed through an incision in the lower abdomen. In some cases, removal of one or the pair of ovaries and fallopian tube may also be a part of the surgery. This procedure of hysterectomy is also carried out through an incision in the vagina, and it is termed as vaginal hysterectomy. However, most doctors prefer abdominal hysterectomy to diagnose possible diseases in other pelvic organs, and in case of a large uterus.

Hysterectomy is performed for treating gynecologic cancer, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, prolapsed uterus, persistent vaginal bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain. After having undergone hysterectomy, a woman loses the ability to conceive. So, it is always better to seek a doctor's advice for other alternatives to this surgery. However, except in case of cancer, there are other alternative surgeries for the conditions mentioned above.

Recovery After Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is an inpatient surgery, which means that the procedure is carried out after the patient has been admitted to the hospital. The stay at the hospital depends upon the type of surgery performed and the doctor's recommendation. However, normally the patient needs to stay for one or two days in the hospital, for the doctors to monitor any signs of pain. Medications are prescribed to prevent any possible infection post-surgery. The hospital stay may get extended to a maximum of four days and the patient can start walking the following day.

There is normal vaginal bleeding and discharge for several days post-surgery. So, sanitary pads should be kept at the patient's disposal. The incision performed during the surgery gradually heals, however, it leaves a prominent scar on the abdominal area.

Full recovery from hysterectomy may take several weeks, and there could be possible complications during the recovery time as well. The common complications may include fever, infection, postoperative bleeding, injury to the ureter and bowel injuries. Other side effects can also come up due to exposure to anesthesia and adhesion.

Vaginal hysterectomy recovery period for a patient is about 2 - 3 weeks. Within this period, the patient can return to her normal activity. A laparoscopic hysterectomy recovery involves a longer duration of about 3 - 6 weeks. The recovery time for abdominal hysterectomy might extend to as long as 3 months. However, it all depends upon any possible infections or acute complications and the overall health of the patient. It also depends on the age of the patient. In a partial hysterectomy recovery, there is still a lurking risk of cervical cancer. So, it is necessary to undergo regular Pap tests for screening.

Measures to be Taken Post Abdominal Hysterectomy

The following measures should be taken to avoid any side effects of hysterectomy. As mentioned, sanitary pads should be kept handy as vaginal discharge may continue for several days post the surgery.

# Activities like carrying heavy objects must be avoided as such things directly affect the abdominal area of the body. Bending over, driving, climbing stairs, cooking meals, washing clothes, and other household activities should also be strictly avoided during the recovery period. The patient should also be careful from making any sudden body movements.

# Dairy products should be avoided as they tend to cause constipation. Certain painkillers, if administered during the recovery time may also cause constipation. Alcohol is a big 'No! No!' when it comes to shorten the recovery period, and especially during the course of medications.

# During the surgery, the patient's body undergoes a lot of stress. So, to ensure proper healing of the body, nutritious and healthy foods must be included in the diet. Foods such as cold-water fish, turkey, chicken, soups, salads and all kinds of fruits must be taken in adequate proportions. Speedy recovery is achieved by taking multiple vitamin supplements, iron and vitamin C supplements as well.

# Drinking plenty of water daily is considered as one of the most vital habits to maintain good health. So during the recovery, it is a must to have 8 - 10 glasses of filtered water on a daily basis. This is required to flush out all the toxins from the body, which otherwise, may get accumulated, and may stretch the recovery time.

# The patient needs to have ample amount of sleep and take utmost care of herself. Listening to soft music, reading books, watching television are some of the ways through which the patient can relax herself.

Undergoing an abdominal hysterectomy or any other kind of hysterectomy, does not necessarily affect a woman's life post the surgery. Some women get anxious about their sex life, lest the surgery might have negative implications on it. However, many studies have revealed that most women have maintained their sex life as good as it was before the surgery. In fact, some seemed to experience increased sexual pleasure after total recovery from hysterectomy. The surgery provides relief from all painful symptoms that the patient was suffering from.

Some women who undergo hysterectomy to treat cancer, might experience severe grief and depression over having developed infertility, and not being able to bear a child for the rest of their lives. Hence, love and support from the family becomes essential at this stage for total recovery.