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Caring for Yourself after a Hysterectomy HF#4899

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This handout will tell you what to expect when you go home after having a hysterectomy.  A hysterectomy can be done through the abdomen or through the vagina.  Be sure you read the section that applies to you.  If you are not sure, ask your nurse for help.

 

What to Expect 

 

If you had surgery through the abdomen

 

  • An incision in your abdomen.
  • Some pain.
  • Little or no red to yellow vaginal drainage.
  • Some fatigue.
  • Possibly, a catheter (tube) to drain urine.  You may go home with the tube in place. Your nurse will give you a handout about how to care for this tube.

 

If you had surgery through the vagina

 

  • A vaginal pack that will be removed the day after surgery.
  • Small to moderate amount of red to yellow vaginal drainage.  It can last for a few days to a couple of weeks.
  • Some fatigue.
  • Some bruising around your vagina and buttocks.
  • Possibly, a catheter (tube) to drain urine.  You may go home with the tube in place. Your nurse will give you a handout about how to care for this tube.

 

Feelings after hysterectomy may include the blues.  The milder forms are more common.  If you need support, counselors are available.  Seeking help is the best thing you can do if you are having trouble handling these feelings on your own.

 

After You Go Home

 

  • Check your incision daily for any signs of infection. Watch for
    • Redness
    • Fever
    • Swelling
    • Warmth
    • Soreness at the site
    • Pus-like drainage

 

  • Limit any stair climbing for the first 2-3 days.  Light walking is ok.  Avoid getting fatigued.  Rest often.
  • Pain relievers are available.
  • You may shower and shampoo, but do not bathe in a tub until your doctor says you may do so.
  • No heavy lifting greater than 15 pounds until after your first return clinic visit.
  • Do not drive until approved by your doctor (about 2 weeks).
  • No sexual intercourse, douching, tampons, or placing anything in vagina until your doctor says you may do so.
  • Avoid heavy activity for 6 to 8 weeks.
  • Please call your clinic to make a follow up visit.

 

What You May Eat

 

Eat a normal diet.  It is wise to include foods high in fiber, like bran and oats.  Drink 6-8 glasses of liquid each day to prevent constipation.  If this occurs, you may take Colace® (2 capsules at bedtime) or Milk of Magnesia®.  You may buy these at your local drug store.

 

When to Call Your Doctor

 

  • Bright red vaginal bleeding (greater than 1 pad per hour)
  • Fever greater than 100.4° F
  • Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
  • Signs of infection at suture line (warmth, redness, swelling, pus, soreness)
  • Pain not controlled well with pain pills, or pain that is increasing
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Problems with urination
  • No bowel movement within 2-3 days after going home
  • Problems with depression

 

If you have any questions or problems once you are home, please call

 

 

UW Health- Managed OB Clinics

UW Health West OB/GYN Clinic

451 Junction Rd

Madison WI 53717

(608) 265-7601 

UW Health East OB/GYN Clinic

5249 E Terrace Pkwy

Madison WI 53718

(608) 265-1230 

 

UW Health Benign Gynecology Clinic

600 Highland Ave

Madison WI 53792

(608) 263-6240

 

UW Health Gynecology/Oncology Clinic

600 Highland Ave

Madison WI 53792

(608) 263-1548

 

UWMF- Managed OB Clinics

OB/GYN Clinic

20 S. Park, Suite 307

Madison, WI 53715

(608) 287-2830

 

East Towne

4122 East Towne Blvd.

Madison, WI 53704

(608) 242-6840

West Towne

7102 Mineral Point Rd.

Madison, WI 53717

(608) 828-7610

Fitchburg

5543 East Cheryl Parkway

Fitchburg, WI 53711

(608) 274-5300

 

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #7091.

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 11/22/2010

Copyright © 08/24/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#4899

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