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Resting after Hysterectomy

From the Hysterectomy Recovery Articles List

How important is resting after surgery?


Your body needs sleep to repair and rejuvenate itself on a daily basis. It needs even more rest to repair itself properly after a major surgery like a hysterectomy. For those of you who are as resistant as a toddler when it comes to R&R, or those who feel like they can't spend another day in a recliner, please consider the following information.

Part of resting means getting adequate sleep. While you sleep, your body does a lot of maintenance work that is especially important for your healing body. Your cells are busy making repairs where they're needed. Your immune system is working overtime to fight any infections. Overall, sleep allows your body to recharge so that it can function properly in the morning. Your body will let you know when it needs sleep. If it's telling you to sleep in the middle of the day, you'd be wise to listen to it.

If insomnia or any other issues are keeping you from getting a good night’s sleep during your recovery, talk to your doctor about your options. You may need a slight sedative or a supplement like Melatonin to help you get the sleep you need.

Simple relaxing tasks in your resting spot can count as rest also. If you have a pile of books you've been wanting to read, movies you've been wanting to watch, mending projects you've been meaning to complete, or anything else you can do sitting down, now is the perfect time to get caught up. These tasks can keep you busy and entertained without stressing your body.

In the initial days of recovery, you may only be able to move from bed to bathroom to couch. Taking those short treks every couple hours is a good thing. Some activity is needed to prevent surgical complications and promote healing. As you continue to heal, those short treks will become longer treks, but always take care not to overexert yourself. Your body may let you know with a swollen tummy or possibly light bleeding if you have been doing too much and need to rest more.

So as your body recovers, be sure to get enough sleep, keep busy with light, seated activities, and get up every few hours to walk a little bit. Everyone's body is different, but if you listen to yours (in combination with doctors orders, of course), you should be well on your way to a healthy recovery.


This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.



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