Reason for Swelly Belly?

I am at four weeks TAH and my belly is more swollen and painful than it was at three weeks. I also get backaches. I've read it is quite common especially if you overdo it but what I really want to know is exactly what is happening inside. What is swollen? My stomach is huge even where I don't think I have stitches. And the only way I could take it easier is if I had a maid handing me everything. I spend half my day laying down.

Don't know if this is true for you, but the nurse at my doc's office reminded me that after TAH the internal organs that got moved around were basically "traumatized" and need a long time to "adjust". Swelling was my body's way to remind me to keep my feet up often and be patient with the healing process.
I got that lecture several times, and it became almost funny except my abdomen was so sore until six weeks. At four weeks, I was still swelling so much I couldn't wear anything except really stretchy clothes. My abdomen was swollen from above my belly button to my privates and pretty much all across the front. It was a little freaky.
As I understand it, swelling is basically fluid retention and everything from intestines to muscles are involved.
I was also told TAH (mine included BSO) is the surgery that causes the most swelling. You can always call your doc or nurse practioner, maybe they'll have suggestions for you.
Tomorrow will be 7 weeks for this sister, and I was only able to wear some of my pre surgery clothes to work last week.

Gladtofindya, thank you for the information. I guess I just have to be patient.

Hiya I also had my hysterectomy on the 5th Jan... I look pregnant my belly is that swollen... I have to weaar a size up its that swollen.. Its the same in the morning as at night. I am so fed up!! I am resting and pottering a bit ... but having read stories on here people are walking miles and back at work.. I have no chance ;-(

Everyone recovers differently. I like you am not walking miles or back to work. Sitting hurts too. Very achey and swelling. Do not be hard on yourself TANGO. i think we need to recognize that this really is a tough surgery on the body. (((((hugs to all)))))

Hi,

I also am not walking miles or going to work yet. At three weeks post-op, I was very uncomfortable with swelly belly, but it seems to be better now, at almost five weeks post-op. And, even though my energy is finally starting to return and I am feeling better, I have REALLY been trying to take it easy and drink lots of water, both of which seem to help the swelly belly. It's also nice to have an excuse to wear yoga pants every place I go!

Take care of yourself. I hope you continue to feel better and that the swelly belly gets a bit better each day.

~ Jane.