The operation procedure that involves the removal of a woman’s uterus is known as hysterectomy. There are different reasons such as uterine fibroids, abnormal vaginal bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, cancer of the uterus, and uterine prolapse that cause a woman to have a hysterectomy. Even though a hysterectomy can relieve the symptoms, there are a few challenges ahead.
Recover After Hysterectomy
Recovering after a hysterectomy varies from patient to patient as it depends on a huge range of factors. The type of operation, age, general fitness levels, type of work, and stress levels are some of the factors that influence recovery after hysterectomy.
If the patient has a hysterectomy before her menopause, then she will have symptoms of menopause, hot flushes, mood swings, etc. because the body is adjusting to changes in hormone levels. Vaginal dryness and changes in sexual desire also occur. If the changes are drastic, hormone replacement therapy is recommended.
Usually, women feel a sense of loss after the surgery, and depression is normal among patients. After a hysterectomy, women often tend to undergo anxiety, fear, and sexual reluctance. In order to recover fully and quickly from a hysterectomy, it is important to avoid such feelings. With a help of mental health therapist and the support of the family, one can overcome this.
Persistent nausea are vomiting are some of the common complications after the surgery. In order to avoid nausea and vomiting, intravenous fluids are administrated during the first day. However, it is better to eat food and fluid as early as possible after the surgery. In order to reduce pain caused by surgery, doctors prescribe pills or intramuscular injections. Starting your daily routine helps to get rid of the side effects like blood clots, gas pains, and pneumonia.
Constipation is one of the common side effects of the surgery. Drinking eight glasses of water and fluids daily help to avoid constipation. Keep away from dairy products that can worsen constipation. Stool softening pills such as Colace and psyllium can be used. Eating a balanced nutritious diet promotes faster healing.
The healing time to recover fully after having a hysterectomy depends on the age and health conditions. Usually, it takes about six to eight weeks. During this time, it is necessary to take rest as much as possible. Avoid lifting anything heavy objects as abdominal muscles and the surrounding tissues require time to heal.
Walking and stair climbing help to avert complications after a hysterectomy. Avoid tub baths, showers and driving activities. Vaginal intercourse, douching, and tampons should be avoided for some weeks to get complete recovery after hysterectomy.
Generally, the complications that are associated with a hysterectomy are almost similar to that of any other major surgeries. They include, blood clot, infections, excessive bleeding, after effects of anesthesia, etc. As mentioned earlier, loss of sexual desire and depression are some of the psychological and emotional effects associated with hysterectomy.
A healthy lifestyle after a hysterectomy is a must to avoid sudden weight gain. After a hysterectomy, women do not sleep well and may feel irritable. With good nutrition and exercise one can overcome the downside of a hysterectomy. Ensure to eat plenty of colorful fruits and veggies that are packed with disease fighting anti-oxidants. Include more grains and legumes in your diet. Oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, and cereals are high in fiber. Black, red and kidney beans are packed with antioxidants. Avoid trans and saturated fats. Vegetable oils, lean protein, vegetable protein are good fats. Calcium is vital for bone health. A vitamin D supplement is also beneficial.
Keeping things in perspective and relaxation techniques help to keep stress and anxiety at bay.
References:
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Hysterectomy/Pages/Recovery.aspx
http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/hysterectomy.cfm#f
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Hysterectomy
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002915.htm