Post op swelling and newbie

Hi,
This is my first post. Had TAH and BSO and bladder sling on August 1. On Aug.2 had 103 fever caused by bladder infection. Went home yesterday, Aug. 4. Doctor found a lot of endometrios in adominal cavity with adhesions, and 5cm fibroid in uterus.

Good things: Can urinate and had first BM. Just using Ibuprofen for pain.

Problems and looking for advice. First I weigh 260 lbs. 5foot 2 inches.

*I came home from hospital with extremely bloated feet, hands, and abdomin. Had a lot of IV fluid.

*Can't reach around swollen belly from front or back to wipe after bm. Afraid to strain to accomplish this so DH is helping.

*If it hurts to release lever on recliner should I be doing this?

*I slept on my side for part of last night and had some blood spot on my underwear near incision site. It hurt a bit getting into that position. Does laying on side put too much strain on the incision?

Sorry for all the questions.

ddla

I can't really answer any of your questions, but I can tell you that I have been sleeping on my side for about 3 nights now (TAH on 7-30). When I wake up I have quite a bit of pain on my side. Once I'm up and moving around a bit the pain goes away (until I try to lie on my side again) I haven't had any spotting from my incision. I tried to sleep on my back last night but I'm just not comfortable that way.

My doctor said to lay 45 degree angle on back with 1-2 pillows under knees for several weeks. I'd say if it hurts to pull recliner thingy you need to ask for help with that. I used a spray bottle of water those first few days I couldn't reach to wipe either.... you're hubby is so sweet... mine is a total wimp. I'd say the bloat is somewhat normal and moving around (not for a long time but OFTEN each day) will all help with that. Make sure you aren't consuming too much sodium as that will add to those issues. Hang in there. You are healing at the rate you are supposed to. It may be slower than others... but if you feel each day (minus a few set-back days) you're feeling better and better then that's progress.