A Recipe For A Healthy Recovery
Recovering from a major surgery like a hysterectomy is a scary feat.
You do so much to get prepared for the early days, but when it comes to movement… it can feel so confusing.
One source says no lifting at all, ever again.
Another says don’t lift any more than 10 pounds... but your back is KILLING you when you wash the dishes. Should you avoid that too?
It’s so confusing!!
The “perfect program” is different for each individual, depending on your needs, health + the specifics of your surgery… But here are some key principles to guide you:
Nutrition supports healthy movements. You have to eat enough, especially enough protein. The first few months after surgery are not the time for an aggressive diet, to start Ozempic, or to go into major restriction mode.
If it hurts your back, stop. Point, blank, period. If your back is still hurting once you’ve been “cleared” for everything... Consider getting help.
If it’s making you hold your breath, stop. It’s not all about the amount of weight you’re holding. Carrying a grocery bag with your arm extended is very different from having it slung from your shoulder. Carrying a 5-pound laundry basket out in front of you can be harder than holding a 10-pound dumbbell. As a rule of thumb, if it’s strenuous enough that you’re holding your breath - stop.
Take a pelvic floor baseline. 1 or 2 weeks after surgery, pay attention to everything you’re feeling down there. If you still have those sensations at 6 weeks, take note. Ask your doctor, and they’ll probably say it’s normal. But check again in another 4 weeks. If it’s not getting better it’s NOT normal, + you deserve help.
Are there other things you wish you’d known going into your surgery? What kinds of lifting restrictions did you get?
I'd love to hear from you!