Four days post op abdominal hysterectomy

Four days post op. Procedure was June 30. Removed uterus, cervix, both tubes abdominally. Left the one ovary I had left after previous surgery. I am very fortunate that I had no pain post op (possibly because incision was made in previous scar from another surgery). I have not taken any pain meds. As a result was able to get moving day after surgery and released one day early. Do have a lot of bloating and swelling. Had first BM 2 days post op after taking softeners couple of times per day (as directed) and walking. Taking it slow and biggest complaints are distended belly and getting comfortable sleeping, as I am side sleeper but am propping myself up on every side with pillows. Also getting very bored trying to not overdo things. Taking short walks outside to keep body and bm's moving. Belly has not gone down much after bm's but hopeful that will change with time.

Have you tried sleeping on your side? If you tried it and it was uncomfortable, then don't do it. But don't be scared to try it. I had a TAH with a 7" vertical incision and slept comfortably on my side even the first night after surgery. A pillow tucked in against my belly helped.

A lot of the swelling is due to traumatized abdominal tissues. It *will* go down slowly over the coming weeks. Mine lasted about three months, but the last month it was just some really minor swelling in the evenings.

I have tried but I feel a pulling, although each day has gotten better. Thank you for sharing your experience on the bloating and swelling!