City Mail Carriers????? When did you go back to work?

It's been almost 3 wks since my TVH. I got on the tread mill yesterday and walked a mile( in 30 min, man I'm slow!!!!) Today, my tummy muscles are a little tender and I had an ache in the pelvic area. Nothing bad, just kind of annoying.

My Dr said I would be fine to go back to work at 6 wks. But I've read a lot of sisters have a hard time when they go back to their office jobs. I walk for 4 hrs and then drive for 2. Loading the trucks is going to be my main concern. Those trays of mail can get heavy. We weighed some before i left. One weighed 42 lbs, I didn't weigh the next tray but if felt a lot heavier than that. We have to pick them up put them in a hamper and then bend over to pick it up out of the hamper to lift it into the truck. They guys where telling me that even they get really heavy for them. So, Am I going to be ok when i return after 6 weeks. I havent' told the dr. how much the trays weigh. She may let me work part-time if i need it, I hope. I know the guys will help me load the truck too. We are all really good about helping each other. I just have a boss that doesnt' think anyone should ever be sick or need any kind of help.
Thanks just wanted to know what to expect when i get back.

That doesn't sound like something you should be doing 6 wks post-op. I would talk to your doctor and tell her exactly what your job entails. Did you have a case-manager at work for your medical leave? Perhaps you can contact them and let them know in advance that you can return to work but have restrictions and will need help. I believe they have to accomodate you, although I know the post-office is notorious for slave-driving. My dad was a letter carrier and has some terrible stories! You have to speak up for yourself, nobody will do it for you. Giving them advance warning may be a good thing.

After a TVH, a prolapse is more likely if you have a weak pelvic floor. Tell your doctor your job and follow instructuions carefullly on this one, but ceratinly I would avoid the very heavy liftng as much as possible and do practise your kegels regularly - at least until 3 months but longer if you can.

Do be careful about excersing too much, too quickly. Many drs do not want their patients using a treadmill for about 6 weeks after a hyst. Then you need to slowly increase how much you walk.

Because of the amount of walking and lifting you do for your job, do talk to your dr about when to return to work. Let him/her know exactly you do on the job -- how much you lift and how often, how much you bend, and how much you walk. Your dr should be able to advise you on what would be best for you.

Best wishes to you!