Tearing Stitches?

Ladies,

I just had my Total Lapro Hysterectomy 10 days ago and I seem to be healing ok. Since everything's on the inside (so to speak), how would I know if I rip, tear or damage my stitches in any way? I'm not in any specific pain (just little twinges) and no bleeding. I'm not scheduled to see my doc for the surgery follow-up for another 4 wks. I'm probably just being paranoid.

Any and all input welcome. Thanks!

Good question! 4 weeks sure seems like a long time! You could call the doctor and ask maybe. I don't know how to tell - except it would seem that there would be alot of pain if stitches broke open and bleeding began.

About 4 days after my surgery, I felt some weird pull/pain at the top of the vagina while using the restroom. I am sure I pulled those stitches, but very carefully let off, and rested alot. Never felt that again.

My simple belief is that a twinge of pain while resting is normal.. twinges while you are doing something is your body telling you to stop and rest/slow down. Otherwise - just relax and heal!

Thanks so much for your reply. I kinda felt like I was being alarmist, but your "twinge" experiences give me perspective. I'll keep resting!

I wondered the same thing. I'm 3 weeks post-op from a LASH and have some leaking with one of my incisions. Is this normal?

Also my post-op follow-up was also scheduled for 4weeks after my surgery date. Is this odd?

I was wondering the same thing. I get the occasional sharp stinging pain on my right side but I think that's just from moving a little quickly, especially when trying to get comfy in bed. I found my body pillow was a godsend last night, my first night home from the hospital. My post-op is scheduled for four weeks as well but my specialist will be away at a conference so I will have to work around that.

Pains, twinges, aches, and some discharge are all normal. A torn stitch will likely give you some sharp pain and some bright red bleeding. You might notice that your swelly belly will act up too. All the things you've described sound like the process of normal healing. If you do notice a fair amount of bright red blood with increased pain, then you should give your doc a call. Happy Healing.

Does anyone know if "first thing in the morning" stretches would tear stitches? You know, the kind of stretching you unconsciously do before you're fully awake?