How long will I need help??

My hubby travels often and we want to schedule as best we can.
I'm having a vaginal hyterectomy, because of fibroids, leaving my ovaries.
Any idea what the recovery time is? My Doc says at least 4 weeks. Will I be in bed that long?
Cathy

Hi Cathy, I am having the same surgery. I am planning on being out of work at least 6 weeks but during that time I hope to be able to do moderate stuff around the house. Its not all bed rest although the general rule of thumb is to not overdo it even though you are feeling better. Do you have anyone who can help you while your husband is away? You cant drive for 2 weeks. My doc says no running a sweeper, lifting clothes baskets or even pusing a heavy grocery cart. In otherwords, take care of yourself during this recovery time. I hope you will have some one who can help you out if he has to be away. My husband works from home and I have a 16 year old daughter who is more than willing to drive anywhere I need her to go!!!
Good luck to you!

I don't have any relatives near by, but I can ask some church people to help. My son does have a permit, but also works.

If my husband takes a couple of weeks off, do you think I can handle things with a 15 yr old daughters help or do I need an adult?
Cathy

You won't actually be "in bed" at all, but you won't be able to do a lot of the things you can now, and you should plan on spending most of your day laying down and resting. Sitting and standing is an activity!

* You'll need help in and out of bed, and probably help showering for the first few days.

* You won't be able to lift any more than a full dinner plate for the first week, and absolutely no housework or lifting children. No vacuuming, no laundry, no bending, no stretching. You will be tempted to clean - DON'T DO IT!!

* You are supposed to walk short distances every day to help with bowel function and to keep from stiffening up.

* No stairs if you can help it. If you have stairs, decide where you will spend the day and set up your supplies accordingly.

*Your Dr probably won't clear you to drive yourself for 2 weeks - and if you are on pain pills you shouldn't drive till you've been off for 48 hours.

Do a trial run through your normal activities and see what motions you do that use your abdominal muscles - if you use them now, you won't be able to for the first few weeks after surgery. Plan accordingly. Most women seem to do OK without constant help after the first week or so, but if you have small children you might need help longer. Minimal recovery time is 6 -8 weeks, and most women can return to moderately normal activities at this time. Total healing can take up to 6 months.

Everyones surgery and recovery will vary, don't try to be superwoman - this is major surgery, even if no stitches show. Allow yourself time to heal - you only get one shot at it and overdoing it can get you a quick trip to the Dr's office and a can delay recovery.

Good Luck!

Jenine