How to Recover from Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Hysterectomies are the second most common surgery performed in American women, according to the Mayo Clinic (after cesarean section delivery). The most common reason for a hysterectomy is the removal of uterine fibroids, but cancer, endometriosis, heavy vaginal bleeding and uterine prolapse can also be treated by hysterectomy. Laparoscopic hysterectomies are performed through a small incision in the abdomen. A surgeon places a small tube with a light and camera on one end, called a laparoscope, through the incision. This enables the surgeon to view the surgical area on a monitor. The uterus is then removed through the vagina.

Things You'll Need

• Ice packs
• Pain relievers

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Instructions

• 1

  Get plenty of rest to encourage healing and reduce pain and bleeding. Do not engage in any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until your doctor gives you permission to do so. Although your incision is fairly small, your internal organs have undergone a significant amount of trauma and require time to recover.

• 2

  Apply ice packs to your abdominal area to reduce swelling and discomfort. This should be done for 20 minutes at a time, several times each day, for the first few days following your surgery.

• 3

  Keep your abdominal incision dry until healing is complete and your sutures are removed. Depending on the number of stitches you received, you may be allowed to remove your dressings within one or two days. Take sponge baths during your recovery period instead of baths or showers.

• 4

  Avoid having sex for several weeks following your surgery, and do not douche or use tampons. Your doctor will let you know when you can begin having sex again at your followup appointment, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

• 5

  Take pain relievers to ease your discomfort. If over-the-counter pain medications are not sufficient, your doctor can prescribe a narcotic pain medication. Do not take aspirin without first consulting your doctor, as it may make bleeding and bruising worse.

• 6

  Resume normal activities in two weeks, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Minor restrictions on your activity level may remain in place for a month or longer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Check your surgical discharge papers or speak with your surgeon for limitations specific to your procedure.

• 7

  Inform your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of infection or other complications. Fever, chills, heaving bleeding, redness or discharge from your incision, severe pain, shortness of breath, chest pain and problems with urination are all symptoms that require immediate medical attention during your recovery period.