5 weeks post op cramping

I had Da Vinci hyster. 5 weeks ago. I had problems urinating afterwards and came home with a catheter, which I had for a week. I saw my dr. 8 days after my surgery and he cleared me to go back to work the next week and do whatever I felt like doing. I have been working (teaching 27 4th graders) and trying to keep up with home and family things. I had some cramping earlier, but just brushed it off. Now, it seems to be more frequent, often lasting most of the day. I called my dr. and his nurse told me to take motrin around the clock for 3 days to get the inflammation under control. It does not seem to be helping. The cramps are not intolerable, but very uncomfortable. Sometimes, I get sharp, stabbing pains as well. Is this part of the healing process? Did I over do it by going back to work at 2 weeks? I guess I did not ask enough questions about post-op issues. Thanks for any help and information!

Hi there!

I'm sorry you're experiencing this. Personally, I could not have even thought about returning to work at the 2-week mark. It usually takes at least twice that for initial healing inside. It's possible if you are still tender and crampy, it could be time to "rewind" and get back in bed for a few days or so. Thus, the emphasis on the doctor's statement "...whatever you feel like doing"... which means listen to your body and if your body is saying, "ouch," then you may have pushed yourself a bit too much.

I hope you are able to take it easy on yourself and feel better. This is not the type of pain that can or should be "worked through" -- it's a signal from your body saying the princess can use a little more pampering for a little while longer!

Take care, sweetie, and keep us posted on how you're doing!

Hi Criss,

Thanks so much for the reminder! I guess I just feel guilty since I was given the all-clear. It is going to be cold here tomorrow, so it sounds like a good day to stay in bed and read. I really appreciate the support!

I really wish some of these docs. had to live with adhesions that can come from overdoing. Clearly, they don't have to. I am also having weird sharp pains, but from what I hear on this site, that can be a part of healing. God bless you with the 7th graders! And thank you for being a teacher. That is truly a selfless job nowadays.

Kara