LAVH How long before you drive after hysterectomy?

Curious- how long post surgery did you drive? My doctor said two weeks and I'm about to go stir crazy, especially knowing I could be pulling in some extra Christmas cash doing Uber part time. What are the risks (I would never drive medicated)- besides the risk of an accident - does it have something to do with using your leg pelvic muscles? Thanks in advanced

My doctor said no driving for 2-4 weeks and also I can't be a passenger for 2-4 weeks, except for doctor's visits. Driving uses a lot of muscles you aren't aware of, it's not only your legs but turning the steering wheel as well as being able to look over your shoulder. Even unmedicated your reaction times will probably be slower if you're in pain, and if you have to react quickly you won't have time to do it gently enough for healing tissues.

I understand feeling cooped up but you only get one shot to heal properly from this and whatever bit of spending cash you earn isn't really worth it if you hurt yourself <3

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Originally Posted by AbbyNormal9 My doctor said no driving for 2-4 weeks and also I can't be a passenger for 2-4 weeks, except for doctor's visits. Driving uses a lot of muscles you aren't aware of, it's not only your legs but turning the steering wheel as well as being able to look over your shoulder. Even unmedicated your reaction times will probably be slower if you're in pain, and if you have to react quickly you won't have time to do it gently enough for healing tissues. I understand feeling cooped up but you only get one shot to heal properly from this and whatever bit of spending cash you earn isn't really worth it if you hurt yourself <3

Thank you so much it's made m nervous being a passenger a couple of times when I had to run to the bank- I held a pillow over my stomach and put the seatbelt over top of it. I'm "suppose" to go back to my other job week after next which only puts me at two weeks post op. I'm going to ask my doctor about that as well. Appreciating all the input and support here. Much love and thanks

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Originally Posted by Beencouraged Curious- how long post surgery did you drive? My doctor said two weeks and I'm about to go stir crazy, especially knowing I could be pulling in some extra Christmas cash doing Uber part time. What are the risks (I would never drive medicated)- besides the risk of an accident - does it have something to do with using your leg pelvic muscles? Thanks in advanced

I was told that if it hurts to turn your body or push on the brake or gas, then you're not ready

Return to driving only upon your doctor's clearance. You should be able to wear a seat belt comfortably, need to be able to turn around and look over your shoulders for backing up or lane changes, and you need to be able to slam on the brakes without thinking "Is that going to hurt me?" If you return to driving after 2 weeks, make it short trips. You've got a lot of internal healing going on, and sitting upright for extended periods strains the vary areas inside which needs the most healing.

As an extra eye-opener, a hysterectomy prep class I attended was lead by a nurse who works with hyster patients and had a hyster herself. She shared the story of a woman who was involved in an accident while driving early post-op (not the woman's fault) which pushed the steering wheel into her stomach. Doesn't sound real pleasant ! She had to have more surgery to close internal incisions ruptured in the accident.

Uber can wait. The extra cash won't hurry your recovery. Rest is what you need.

I had a partial hys and 5 days post op I was feeling way better and I just wanted to run to the grocery store 2 blocks from my home to get some ice cream since I had a horrible hankering for it. Figured it wouldn't be that bad...figured wrong. It was painful to get in and out of the car and honestly by the time I got home it seemed like the longest car ride of my life even though it was 15 minutes max. Don't do it!

I had a TAH and the doctor said no driving for 6 weeks. I felt wonderful and actually waited 5 weeks before driving because I just had to get out and around for myself.

But, yes, my doctor was very strict about not driving.

I had a LAVh and have no driving restrictions but also haven't drove, my husband has driven me.

At 2 weeks post Op my doctor said i can,but only if i feel up to it.
I'm at 5 weeks and still haven't drove,my husband don't feel comfortable with me taking a chance driving. I go back in 2 weeks for my last check.
Its been nice just relaxing and being taken care of believe me. But i want to just drive haha goin a little nuts

I had LAVH and I drove at 2 weeks. My Dr said no driving if I was in pain. The first trip out I only went half a mile down the road to the store and used that as a practice trip. It really depends on how well you are feeling and if you can move quickly should you have to stop suddenly. Everyone and every situation is different so do what is right for you.