Questions..belly sleeping...driving...shopping-4weeks

H i everyone! I've got questions! I am about 2 days shy of 4 weeks post op. I had a TAH for large fibroids(grapefruits). I sleep on my side pretty good, but am kinda scared to roll over on my belly. Is it too early (Iknow I can call my Dr. but I want voices of experience) Also, I feel preety good, havent' been out at all, I wanted to do a few hours of xmas shopping on Monday with a friend. I figured I'd take lots of breaks, taking advantage of all those benches you see at the mall. I don't want to push it though. I feel like I'm ready. What about driving? I just had knee ligament reconstruction surgery in August, it took 2 months before I could drive (still can't walk right!) so I remember how scary it was to drive the first time. I am afraid of getting dizzy am I just being paranoid? Don't have post op appt. till the 18th.

Thanks for the advice!!

Suz

Hi Suz:

I'm 4 days shy of 3 weeks post-op...I took the big step yesterday went shopping for about 2 hours...Take it slow I certainly felt it last night. I have been soooooooooo, sooooooooo, lucky. Just minor aches and pains since my LAVH nothing in comparision to what I have experienced with my periods for ten years. I haven't driven yet although my Dr said I could have done it 2 weeks post-op. I guess every dr is different, so you probably should check with yours. I too get a little dizzy, I think that is to much resting. Well good luck, and remember utilize those benches...


Angie

Hiya Suz!

I tried lying on my tummy at almost 4 weeks, and I found it was very uncomfortable for me. If I were you, I would give it a try, and if it's comfortable, then I don't think you would be doing any harm.

The driving? I would leave this one up to the DR for sure. Most DRs are very specific about instructing patients when we can drive. I didn't drive for 5 weeks, even tho' my Dr told me I could start very very gradually at 2 weeks.... first down the driveway, then down the street and back, then around the block -- just to re-acclimate myself, and it was a bit scary for me, because I had to put all my effort into making sure I was alert and paying attention.

And be careful not to lift alot when you go out shopping. Walking and moving around can be very good for you, but as long as you know when to take a rest.... you may find you want to go home sooner than you think.

I just got home from being out and shopping for about 6 hrs. I am tired, but not any more than I would have been other wise. MAN! there are TONS of people at the mall. LOL

I have been really blessed and have felt great since I got home from the castle. Hardly tired, almost no pain at all.

I have been driving since just shy of 2 weeks. Now, by driving, I dont' mean a lot. I have been out a total of3 times, today included and I haven't gone far.

I have never been a belly sleeper, so I can't help you there...try it and see how it feels...

Pace yourself and see how you feel. Plan on only trying to do a little and then if you poop out, you won't be disappointed and if you feel like doing a little more, than great!

Have fun! happy shopping....

IN HIM,
Dawn <><

If you really feel the need to get out of the house for a little while, and can enjoy a leisurely pace shopping -- having fun being in the holiday atmosphere, then go for it. Just be careful, take it really slow, and leave at the first sign of tiredness --- in other words, don't push yourself.

One word of caution -- since you are still not walking normally because of your knee surgery, does your limp or whatever put any additional pressure on your abdomen -- like twisting or jostling it more than normal? If so, then I think you should take it even easier.

Have fun, take it easy, and be sensible so you can enjoy the rest of the holidays.

Don't drive until you get doctor's clearance. And, yes, a lot of us have had problems with dizziness after surgery for as long as 6 to 8 weeks. We also have balance problems. It has to do with the anesthesia, pain meds, and general inactivity necessary for healing. Be very careful!



Barbara

I don't know about the other ladies, but for the last few days, I have been able to sleep partially on my tummy. I am still using my body pillow, and I snuggle up to it and hike up my knee onto it. this way I have some room for my belly. I am more on my tummy than on my side. Naturally, If you feel discomfort , don't do it. Hope this helps!

Rachel