6 Things To Know About Recovering From Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery

Posted on: 1 August 2017

Pelvic reconstructive surgery is often used to repair damage caused by issues affecting the pelvic floor, often caused by childbirth, disease, or former surgery. Many women realize that they are having pelvic floor issues due to health issues like constipation, incontinence, an urgency with urination, and urinary leakage. After surgery, many patients express that these symptoms decrease or are totally eliminated. Unfortunately, there are a few things that happen post-surgery that you need to know about:

1. Fatigue Often Follows Surgery

It is not uncommon for patients to express that they are exhausted in the days following surgery. Some patients express that they feel worse before things start to feel better.

2. Spotting and Discharge May Occur

Discharge and bloody spotting are common in the initial weeks following the surgery. You should see a lessening in the discharge and bleeding in the weeks that follow, but if you see an increase you should get in touch with your doctor right away.

3. You Need to Limit Activity For the Next Few Weeks

It can take months or even several years to fully recover from this surgery. It is important that you limit activity in the weeks following surgery to ensure that you do not worsen anything. It is especially important that you avoid putting too much pressure on your core. Walking is the best exercise you can do during this recovery period.

4. You Must Avoid Constipation It is important that you are not straining on the toilet after surgery. This means that you need to have a diet high in fiber. Some patients find that using a stool softener is helpful.

5. Sexual Intercourse Is On Hold

Because of the nature of the pelvic reconstructive surgery, patients are not able to engage in sexual intercourse in the weeks following the procedure. You will receive approval from your doctor when it is safe to engage in these activities again. It is also not abnormal for women to report that they feel some change in their body at this point.

6. Having Lots of Support Helps

Pelvic reconstructive surgery can be a difficult experience, so it is helpful to have a lot of support. Talk to trusted loved ones about any worries or difficulties you have.

Do you still have questions about pelvic reconstruction? It is only natural that you have some concerns. Speak with your doctor about the procedure to ensure that you are ready to proceed.

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