4 weeks post-op TAH

Hello all, I am new to this site, just found it while surfing the net. I am 4 weeks post-op today. I had adenomyosis(uterus 3 times the normal size), a large uterine fybroid, and endometriotic implant. There were adhesions behind(lower)uterus to my bladder. Anyhow recovery has been slow. I am still very sore, if I walk around too much, like going to the store I hurt. I am still somewhat swollen. I just didn't think I would be like this 4 weeks later. Also when I asked my doctor what my restrictions were during the six week recovery process....his reply was" If it hurts, don't do it." I went on to read some of your posts and learned things I should or shouldn't do. My biggest fear is after my 6 week check-up, and the Dr wants to release me back to work. I am a CNA and work in a nursing home, lifting people, some over 200 lbs. It's uncomfortable now when I lift a gallon of milk. I have two co-workers telling me I will be able to come back after 6 weeks, they had the same procedure done as me, by the same Dr.....but they both work behind a desk, not with the people and all the aspects of care that I do. Please advise as in two weeks is my 6 week post-op. And I honestly can say I do not see myself being able to do my job then. Thanks in advance.

If you think you are not going to be able to do it DONT. Listen to your body. I am a special ed teachers assistant and I have already told them I am going to be on restricted duty. I mainly deal with learning disabled high school kids that are getting a regular high school diploma. (almost like a tutor) I do have dealings with handicap and mentally challenged kids that I will not be able to have much contact with when I go back. I hate this cause I love my kids but I cannot risk one of them running into me or hitting me in the stomach. Do what your body tells you. Im not a dr but I think lifting your patients is not a good idea. It still hurts me to lift anything over 5-6 pounds and I had my TAH on 1-30-06. Good luck and I have my 6 week on 3-9-06.

Hi,

I do work behind a desk and have been going to work a few hours a week, and let me tell you, my recovery is going great and work for me is exhausting.

I have been trying to make it twice a week for 4-6 hours a day and at four hours I am on my way home. I am at four weeks post op tomorrow.

I agree if your body says NO, do not do it.

with the kind of work you do, i would ask the doc to keep you out till 8 weeks postop.you do hard work{i worked in a nursing home for 5 years}, and it's not worth compromising your health. my tah was 1/31 and i'm out of work for 6 weeks. no way am i going back even part time. you only have one chance to heal right the first time. good luck!