4 days post hysterectomy: Swollen Belly and Digestive Issues

Hi Everyone,

I had my VH this past Monday. Uterus and cervix were taken. I also had a rectocyle repair. In addition to the regular surgery, my doctor requested a spinal epidural prior to regular anesthesia. The reason for my hysterectomy was a polyp with complex hyperplasia with atypia. The pathology came back clean because the atypia was confined to the polyp which was removed during a D&C a month ago. The rest of the uterus was normal except for spots of simple hyperplasia That is the back ground.

Today is Friday and my stomach feels like I am pregnant. I did not have a lap procedure, only vaginal. I have had the worst constipation, which was relieved with Ducolax and Colasce over night. I can't imagine having a regular bowel movement right now. All my stitches in my vagina, where the rectocyle repair took place are uncomfortable and throbbing. I have been taking 600 mg of Ibupropin and Vicodin. I took Vicodin last night with Advil PM because a friend who has a cat came over. The dander on her clothes made me have an allergic reaction. Every time I coughed or sneezed I felt like my stitches were going to open. I went to bed in tears with so much pain. Today I hate the way my stomach feels, so bloated and uncomfortable, even though the laxative worked. I think I should stop the Ibupropin because it is hurting my upper stomach. I have had an ulcer before and this is what it feels like it is on its way to.

But is this bloating from the anesthesia and the double dose from the spinal? It has been gradually building since Tuesday. I could not wear a bra right now or put on a pair of jeans if my life depended on it. Also, when is the throbbing from the recto cycle stitches going to end? I know I am being a baby, but I feel like crap.

Thank you all.

xo

Debbie

NSAIDS like ibuprofen can irritate the stomach, especially if you have a history of issues like ulcers, so it's always recommended that you take them with food - even as little as a few soda crackers can help. Also try ginger tea or flat ginger ale, and avoid common acid triggers; that includes coffee, alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits, chocolate, carbonated drinks, tomatoes, peppermint, and dairy products. If you need to cough or sneeze, hold a pillow over your belly to cushion the area. To avoid straining your internal stitches when having a bowel movement, try sitting on the toilet with your knees drawn into your chest, and your feet elevated on a low stool; this straightens the rectum, so the poop can pass through without straining. To encourage regular bowel movements, take regular walks, and try supplementing your diet with magnesium; food sources include leafy greens, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and dark chocolate. Best wishes for your continued recovery!
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