abdominal pain after 3 mo. - long read

I had a total hysterectomy on 4-17-2012. It was not the usual removal, as my uterus was full of two giant fibroid tumors (double fist size) with another on the way, and severely swollen ovaries the size of a plum.

My uterus extended from just under my breasts, stretched completely to each side, almost wrapping around to my back, and covered all my organs like a blanket, so to say. Surgery was 3 hours long, and on top of all that, I also needed my gallbladder removed too, which was done during the hysterectomy.

I had complications after the surgery. My body went into shock and I would stop breathing. I was hospitalized for 5 days. Even with morphine and then switched to a pill form of pain control, I was still in severe pain. That subsided about a month ago however and became manageable. I was still tender yet my emotional level was becoming better.

I was released to go back to work on 6-25-2012 with no restrictions. I feel I was sent back too early. I work in a factory and there is some heavy lifting of 50 pounds, and climbing stairs. I was prepared and ready to return, but now I am experiencing some moderate to sever pains in my abdomen area. At first, I gave it up to the muscles getting a new workout. After all, I was cut from two inches below the breast down to the bikini line, right through the belly button.

Does anyone know if it is normal to still have pain like this after this surgery? I thought I was supposed to be getting better as time went on. Emotionally I feel great, but physically, it is difficult to preform my job duties, even after my doctor says I should be ok to return to work. I started having the moderate to severe pains after returning to work and moving around in a fast paced work environment.

I am still on prescription Ibuprofen 800 mg. and take 2 a day. Those are about to run out and I don't think I will be able to get that refilled, so may end up getting over the counter meds to help.. yet, that can't be good to take 3 or 4 to get the same 800 mg dose.

If you made it this far, thank you for reading all of this. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated on how to relieve this stress on my body. Is anyone else experiencing this kind of abdominal pain, and if so, how are you coping with it?

Im not as far into my recovery as you are. Maybe you are just lifting to much. 50lbs is alot of weight to pick up for anyone. Im surprised Dr. is allowing that for you cause you had major surgery. Sometimes we form scar tissue that is painful. If you are unhappy with answers from your Dr, go get a second opinion to put your mind at ease. Its your body and you are the only one that knows its limits. So dont over due it.

I was told the weight lifting restriction was 20 pounds, for life! Maybe you can ask for light duty?

Praying you well!