A hysterectomy is a common procedure, and most women leave the hospital the same day it is completed, notes the Women's Surgery Center. After a few days of rest, you should be able to begin mild activity. Certain exercises can help expedite the healing process and improve some of the functions that may have been affected by the hysterectomy. Follow all of your doctor's orders regarding when and how you should resume exercise.
Kegel Exercise
Your bladder may have been affected by your hysterectomy, which could cause urinary incontinence and a change in sexual function. By performing Kegel exercises, you can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles to improve bladder function, notes MayoClinic.com. Perform Kegel exercises by flexing the pelvic muscles that you would use to stop the flow of urine. Practice holding the squeeze for as long as you can, working up to 10 seconds if possible. Complete four or five repetitions several times each day as you recover.
Pelvic Tilt
Your abdominal and stomach muscles can become weak during the recovery period. What's more, you may find it painful to try regular crunches at first. Start with a pelvic tit, which can help relieve back pain and strengthen your pelvic muscles as you recover. You can try pelvic tilts while lying in bed. Lie with your knees bent at a 45-degree angle. Inhale and press your pelvic muscles up toward the ceiling, holding for a few seconds. Then exhale and release back to the starting position. As you become stronger, move your feet farther from your body to enhance the difficulty of the exercise.
Walking
A hysterectomy and the following immobilization of the digestive system can result in gas pains and constipation, exacerbated by certain pain medications. It's important that you get up and moving as soon as your doctor says you can. Walking can help relieve those gas pains and bloating that can cause pain around the incision site after your surgery, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Start with small walks around your house as you recover, graduating to walking up stairs or taking outdoor walks with someone who can support you if necessary.
Head Sit-Ups
As soon as you feel ready to begin regular abdominal exercises again, taking it slowly can help reduce pain and allow you to ease yourself back into certain exercises. The Ohio State University Medical Centers suggests a partial crunch known as a "head sit-up," which is done by lying on the floor and crossing your hands over your abdomen while pulling at your muscles with your hands gently. Inhale and raise your head just high enough to touch your chin to your chest. Hold for three to five seconds before exhaling and coming back to your start position.
