Make the Most of Your Hysterectomy Healing Process
May 18th, 2007Are you having a hysterectomy soon? You can make the most of your recovery when you take the time to learn as much as possible about what will be expected of you. Before you go in for your surgery, you need to make yourself familiar with the signs and symptoms that come with recovery. They may vary according to the type of hysterectomy that you have and your doctor will go over it with you. Yu will need to make preparations before hand because after you have had the operation and are in recovery, it is time to rest, not to make plans and arrangements. A healthy hysterectomy healing process means a healthy future for you!
Your doctor should sit and talk with you before you ever head out to surgery. This is the time to ask any and all questions you may have, no matter how simple or silly you think they may be. It’s important that you understand everything now because immediately after your operation you will likely not be able to remember and understand things well. Part of your recovery will take place within the hospital and then you will be released to your home to continue your recovery. You need to take your recovery seriously and follow your doctor’s orders on what to eat and how long to stay on bed rest, etc.
Usually you can expect to be on bed rest immediately after your operation for at least 6-8 hours. For some types of hysterectomies, it could be longer. You will want to be sure you remain on bed rest as long as your doctor orders even if you think you are feeling okay. Getting up too soon or trying to do too much may hinder your recovery process. In addition, you should take it slowly once you begin walking around again and be sure to have someone else doing your cooking, cleaning and helping you with other things around the home until you are back to normal. Even the ride home will call for special measures to help you feel comfortable. Lots of pillows will help you find a comfortable position and you should be sure you eat a healthy diet throughout your whole hysterectomy healing process.
Rest and relaxation isn’t always easy when you are recovering from an operation but it is very important. Additionally, it is important that you follow a healthy diet and eat regularly, even if only in small amounts. Food is the fuel that your body needs to heal and get back to normal again. Eating a healthy diet will speed up the recovery process. You should avoid alcohol and cigarettes until you have fully recovered as well as dairy foods and aspirin. Ask your doctor if you have any questions regarding whether or not a food is safe to have. Be active in your recovery steps to have a quicker, healthier recovery from your hysterectomy.