When you leave the hospital, you’ll receive directions on caring for yourself at home. Following these directions helps to make sure you have a faster recovery. It often takes about 1 week to 4 weeks to recover from laparoscopic hysterectomy. But recovery time varies for each woman.
Taking care of yourself
Follow these tips to make your recovery as safe and comfortable as possible:
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To prevent constipation, eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water. Your healthcare provider may advise that you use a laxative or a mild stool softener.
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Ask your friends and family to help with chores and errands while you recover.
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Don't lift anything over 10 pounds to prevent straining your incisions.
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Don't get your incisions wet until your healthcare provider says it’s OK to do so.
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Don't put anything in your vagina until your provider says it’s safe to do so. This includes using tampons and douches and having sex.
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Schedule follow-up visits with your provider.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider if any of the following occur:
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Chills or a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised
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Bright red vaginal bleeding or a smelly discharge
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Trouble urinating or a burning feeling during urination
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Severe belly (abdominal) pain or bloating
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An incision site that is red, swollen, or draining smelly fluid
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Trouble breathing or fainting
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Swollen painful leg
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