COVID-19: Coronavirus and Hysterectomy Recovery (effective Mar-16-2020)

We are all aware of the extraordinary times we are facing with the worldwide pandemic of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). This has impacted most everyone in some way. HysterSisters encourages our members

• to listen to and follow directions of your state and local authorities regarding social distancing, mask use, gatherings, discretionary travel, and visiting those more vulnerable to illness.
• to practice proper hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water, avoiding touching your face, sneezing or coughing into tissue or the inside of your elbow, and disinfecting frequently used items
• to know the symptoms of COVID-19 and stay home if you feel sick, plus contact your doctor

For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control site for guidance on COVID-19, particularly

• Steps to Prevent Illness
• What to Do If You are Sick

In addition, as you are recovering from your hysterectomy, it's good to know when to call your doctor. When you were discharged after surgery, you should have been given a list of instructions, including symptoms for which you would need to call your doctor. Not all lists are the same, however, and sometimes they can be vague and unclear. And sometimes, the list just gets lost in all the shuffle after surgery.

If you find yourself in any of these situations, never fear. Here is a general list of symptoms you should probably call your doctor about:

• vaginal bleeding that is bright red and fills a pad an hour. Some bleeding can be normal for up to six weeks, but it should not be excessive
• blood clots that are numerous, significant in size, or painful
• vaginal discharge that is dark yellow or green with a foul smell
• a fever greater than 101 F (38 C)
• pain, tenderness, swelling, or redness in your leg or arm
• uncontrolled or new pain
• chest pain, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath
• an incision that has opened, is draining pus, or is surrounded by redness
• numbness, especially in the fingers and toes
• unusual abdominal swelling or bloating, such as a one-sided bulge
• bowel issues such as inability to have a bowel movement, frequent loose or watery stools, or stools which are bloody or black
• bladder issues such as the inability to urinate, burning with urination, or urine that is bloody or cloudy
• coughing or vomiting blood
• persistent nausea or vomiting
• inability to eat and take in nutrition
• extreme headache
• feeling worse than when you were released from the medical facility

To try to prevent complications, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for you. Also, drink plenty of fluids, eat well, take short walks as you are able, and get adequate rest. You only have one chance to heal properly, so take advantage of the opportunity.

From our article When to Call Your Doctor after a Hysterectomy. 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.