Discharge Instructions for Abdominal Hysterectomy
You had a procedure called abdominal hysterectomy, a surgery to remove your uterus. This can relieve such problems as severe pain and bleeding. It usually takes from 4-6 weeks to recover from abdominal hysterectomy. Remember, though, that recovery time varies from woman to woman.
Home Care
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:
Fever above 101.5°F
Chills
Bright red vaginal bleeding or vaginal bleeding that
soaks more than one pad per hour
A smelly discharge from the vagina
Trouble urinating or burning when you urinate
Severe pain or bloating in your abdomen
Redness, swelling, or drainage at your incision site
Don’t drive for at least 2 weeks after the operation. Don’t drive while you are still taking narcotic pain medications.
Ask others to help with chores and errands while you recover.
Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for 6 weeks.
Don’t vacuum or do other strenuous activities until the doctor says it’s okay.
Walk as often as you feel able.
Try to avoid climbing stairs for the first 2 weeks. When you must climb stairs, go slowly and pause after every few steps.
Continue the coughing and deep breathing exercises that you learned in the hospital.
Avoid constipation.
Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day, unless directed otherwise.
Use a laxative or a mild stool softener if your doctor says it’s okay.
Shower as usual. Wash your incision with mild soap and water. Do not scrub the incision to clean it. Pat it dry.
Don’t use oils, powders, or lotions on your incision.
Don’t put anything in your vagina until your doctor says it’s safe to do so. Don’t use tampons or douches. Don’t have sexual intercourse. Do not do any of these things for 6 weeks.
If you had both ovaries removed, report hot flashes, mood swings, and irritability to your doctor. There may be medications that can help you.
Follow-Up