A hysterectomy -- surgical removal of the uterus -- constitutes a major medical procedure requiring hospitalization for at least a day or two. As with other major surgeries, recovery will take weeks, during which time you will have to restrict your physical activity. Today, doctors can choose from several procedures to remove the uterus, and some are more invasive than others. In general, it takes four to six weeks to recover from an abdominal hysterectomy and three to four weeks to recover from a vaginal or laparoscopic procedure, MedlinePlus reports. During this time, you may have to avoid exercise completely, depending on your doctor's advice.
Step 1
Increase your activity level gradually following the surgery. The day following surgery, while still hospitalized, you likely will be asked to get up out of bed and walk around for a few minutes. In fact, this post-surgical activity can help reduce the likelihood of complications such as blood clots, MedlinePlus reports.
Step 2
Ask your doctor about limitations on your physical activity when you are released from the hospital. While walking for a few minutes may be OK in the weeks following surgery, you likely will not be able to lift heavy objects up to six weeks following the procedure, WomensHealth.gov reports.
Step 3
Go to all scheduled post-operative checkups with your doctor. At this appointments, the doctor will ensure you are recovering properly. Ask whether it is safe for you to resume exercising and how to do so safely.
Step 4
Try your regular workout routine, or a modified plan suggested by your doctor, once you get medical clearance.
Step 5
Scale back your workout or choose less intense activities if you experience pain or discomfort.
Step 6
Report any problems to your doctor if pain persists and new problems develop after you have been given clearance to resume your normal activities. You may need to be evaluated to ensure you have healed properly and have not experience a surgical complication.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind that your doctor likely will recommend that you refrain from exercising for at least six weeks following your surgery, depending on the type of procedure you have. Even sexual intercourse will be off limits for six weeks following a hysterectomy, WomensHealth.gov reports.
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