A hysterectomy is a operation performed to remove a woman's uterus. As you recover from a hysterectomy, you can begin to do some light exercises. Certain exercises can help strengthen your muscles affected by the hysterectomy, while aerobic exercise can help you burn calories and get or stay in shape. Before beginning an exercise program following your surgery, talk with your doctor.
Considerations
Hysterectomies can vary in type and technique, so recovery times will also be different. Some patients only need part of the uterus removed, whereas others undergo complete removal. Most women return home the same day as surgery, according to the Women's Surgery Center, and should be able to move around that day. The average time to return to about 80 percent of normal activities is two weeks. Although recovery rates vary, you can probably follow a gradually increasing program of exercise with your doctor's guidance.
Walking
Walking can help you maintain or improve your cardiovascular health while relieving common postoperative effects such as bloating and gas pain. Start by walking around your house and gradually build up to walking outside, the University of Maryland Medical Center advises. Usually you can begin walking within a day of your procedure, but ask your doctor to be sure. Do not resume high-intensity or high-impact cardio exercises within the first week or two after surgery.
Kegel Exercises
Hysterectomies can weaken the bladder, which may spur infections or urinary incontinence. By performing Kegel exercises, you can help strengthen your pelvic muscles to improve bladder function, according to MayoClinic.com. To do Kegel exercises, lie on your back on the floor and tighten your muscles in the area where you would normally urinate, as if you are trying to stop urine flow. Hold for five seconds then relax. Repeat the exercise four or five times a day, The Ohio State University Medical Center advises.
Abdominal Exercises
In abdominal hysterectomies, ab tissue is cut, which can weaken the surrounding muscles. Ab exercises can help you strengthen your stomach muscles and also improve your posture following surgery. The Ohio State University Medical Center advises doing head situps. To perform a head situp, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet on the floor. Cross your arms across your stomach and pull your stomach muscles together. Then exhale and lift your head, trying to touch your chin to your chest. Hold for five seconds and return your head to the floor. Repeat three to five times and gradually increase your amount of reps.
References
- The Ohio State University Medical Center: Exercises After Your Hysterectomy
- MayoClinic.com: Kegel Exercises
- ShapeFit: Exercise Questions - Can I Get a Flat Stomach After My Hysterectomy?
- Women's Surgery Center: Post-Operative Instructions
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Uterine Fibroids and Hysterectomy
