What is Swelly Belly? What causes it? How do I get rid of it?
First of all, the term swelly belly (Latin term: Swellibellicus) is a Hyster Sisters-created word that refers to post-op swelling of the abdomen. It can occur in any type of hysterectomy procedure, but seems to be more prevalent in abdominal surgeries.
The current views are that swelly belly is caused by trauma to the abdominal tissues, gasses used during surgery, and/or fluids collecting in the tissues due to trauma during surgery.
If you've ever sprained your ankle or been stung by a bee, you've probably had some swelling at the injured site. Same thing with swelly belly.
What swelly belly is NOT is fat, or weak muscles (though they may contribute), or last nights lasagna collecting around your mid-section (though that can also contribute!)
Swelly belly seems to make an appearance soon after surgery in most ladies (though not always all) and may hang around for several weeks or even months. It is exacerbated (made worse) by too much activity, lifting things that are too heavy, being on your feet too long, stuffing yourself in jeans that are too tight, and just generally overdoing it. It also seems to be worse in the evenings, after a long day of overdoing it.
So, you ask, "How do I get rid of it?" You don't. It has to go away on it's own. Resting may help, not overdoing it, not lifting things that are too heavy, not being on your feet too long, whatever the triggers are for your case of Swellibellicus - that's what you should avoid.
Sometimes a good support panty can help too, but again, make sure it isn't too tight, or it can make the problem worse. (Support panties work with swelly belly like putting a pressure bandage on a sprained ankle can take the swelling in the ankle down.) Occasionally, ice packs or a heating pad may help too, but check with your doctor first before using either.
What won't help? Exercise, especially too soon, though after your doctor has released you, it will help tighten up your abs. But the swelling in the tissue may not disappear with exercise. Dieting may not help either, Gals, though if you've got somewhat of a tummy to begin with, you may notice some improvement. However, once again, dieting will not get rid of the swelling in the tissues.
So what's a girl to do? Just wear yours proudly and don't sweat the small stuff. Swelly belly is just one of those things you may have to endure until your body has healed. A small price to pay for getting rid of painful periods, excessive bleeding, fibroid tumors, cancer, or whatever else was the reason for your surgery.
The Hystersisters store has the "Swelly Belly Band" which is a wonderful product that provides support while cooling the incision.
If your tummy becomes hot or red or painful, please call your doctor. This is NOT normal and NOT part of the normal post-op swelling. Any unusual symptoms, or anything that you're not comfortable with should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Contributed by Shashi
This content was written by a member of HysterSisters.com as a non-medical professional based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.
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