Quit Smoking Before Hysterectomy

Now is a great time to quit smoking. When it comes to smoking, the earlier that you can quit before surgery, the better off your body will be. Smoking before surgery can diminish the blood flow to the heart. Those who smoked during the 24 hours before outpatient surgery with general anesthetics were 20 times more likely to have periods of inadequate oxygen supply to the heart than non-smokers, ex-smokers or even smokers who quit 24 hours beforehand.

Many women who were smokers before their surgery had no desire to smoke after their surgery. In other cases, HysterSisters have become inspired to live healthier lives and have found this to be a good time to quit since they are not allowed to smoke in the hospital.

When you cut back on smoking or have quit, your lungs start to heal themselves.

After your surgery you may begin to cough a lot, which can bring pain to your tender stomach. Plan to bring a pillow to press into your stomach and follow the exercise below to help bring oxygen into your lungs while easing stomach pain:

When you are watching TV and a series of commercials comes on, start taking 5 SLOW deep breaths. It may make you dizzy at first, but it will start to get more oxygen in your system. Drink extra fluids as this helps move the secretions in your lungs.

Make a plan now to stop smoking:
1. Set a quit date (We suggest your surgery date)
2. Get the support of your family, friends and co-workers
3. Get rid of all tobacco products

A healthier you is awaiting! You can do it!

Make sure you discuss your plan with your doctor.

And come get support for your decision at HysterSisters forums!