How long before I can drive?

ThAnks to this board for all the info. I having a hysterectomy on THursday and am somewhat nervous..but just wondering how long before I can drive...any info will be very appreciated...Thanks LIna They are doing the laproscopic but may switch to abdominal because of the enlarged uterus..

Hi Linagee,

I just had my pre-op this week, and I asked the nurse this same question. She said I could drive in two weeks as long as I was not still taking pain medication.

Hope this info helps.

I've been driving but I'm not on pain meds and haven't been on them in about 4 or 5 days. Dr didnt tell me when I could drive and I didnt ask. He didnt say much of anything. I'm doing ok just have a UTI now. Otherwise no pain at all from my surgery.

Ask your Dr when you see him when you will be able to drive.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by happyending4me Hi Linagee, I just had my pre-op this week, and I asked the nurse this same question. She said I could drive in two weeks as long as I was not still taking pain medication. Hope this info helps.

You had your pre op and your surgery isn't untill Sept ? That seems like a long time to wait. I thought they usually did those things like a a day or a few days before the surgery. They are doing yours weeks before.

Hi linagee-I was told 3-4 weeks before driving. I opted to wait the 4 weeks. I was riding around though within a couple of days of being home. I would have gone stir crazy if I had to stay in the house all the time. Even if it was only for a few minutes it felt great.

My doctor told me 2 weeks. It was hard to do.....but worth it! It gives you an excuse to stay home and heal! And also let others take care of you! I'm a single parent and that was nice! After that 2 week, i forced myself to do too much and was just worn out! It will be 5 week since my TAH and they have just released me for just about everything but lifting over 10 pounds!

When in doubt, ask your DR. This site is a great help for support! Take care!

Take care!

I was told 2 weeks, made it 10 days. Other women have been told much longer, so it is best to ask your own doctor. Things to consider are your pain level, if you feel comfortable sitting (with a seat belt, even if you use a pillow), if you can lift your foot and slam on the brakes if necessary, if you can twist to look around. And especially, if you have a clear head. Not only pain medication, but even the anesthesia leaves residue that can affect your thinking.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by jamajessie You had your pre op and your surgery isn't untill Sept ? That seems like a long time to wait. I thought they usually did those things like a a day or a few days before the surgery. They are doing yours weeks before.

My surgery is in 3 weeks. I live an hour and a half from the hospital, so this was the only way they could get me in due to availability. They said the hospital will send a packet on the admission instructions and prep. Hopefully that comes soon, so I can prepare my mind for all of this.

my doctor said I could drive after 2-3 weeks, but I waited 4 weeks and then I only drove very short distances. I had abdominal surgery and it still felt sore with the belt, bumps and foot on the brakes, twisting, etc....but the best thing is to ask your doctor AND listen to your body

Each doctor gives his/her own instructions so you need to ask what is okay for you! Insurance can also be an issue as if your doctor has not released you to drive and you are in an accident your insurance company may deny coverage so you do want to be careful.

My doctor gave the flat no driving for six weeks. However, due to complications it was about twelve weeks! You definitely cannot drive if you are taking narcotics.

Best wishes to you for your upcoming surgery and recovery! I hope the surgery is successful and the recovery is quick and smooth! S