An abdominal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes your uterus, or womb, located in your lower abdomen. This procedure may be performed due to gynecologic cancer, endometriosis, uterine prolapse or chronic pelvic pain. The procedure can greatly limit your activity, and exercises are recommended to strengthen the muscles in your stomach and reduce your recovery time. Speak with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Chin Tuck
Begin by sitting in a chair or the side of your bed. Straighten your torso and neck and place your arms at your sides. Ensure that your chin is parallel to the ground. Begin to pull your chin toward your chest. You should feel your head move backwards while performing this exercise. Hold this position for 5 to 10 seconds and repeat 10 times at least once daily.
Pelvic Tilt
A pelvic tilt is recommended by Ohio State University Medical Center to strengthen your abdominal muscles and internal organs and stabilize your spine. Begin by lying on your back. Place one hand on your stomach and the other hand under your lower back. Gently begin to contract your abdominal muscles. You should feel your muscles contracting with the hand placed over your stomach. Tighten your abdominal muscles as well the muscles in your buttocks, and push your lower back into the floor. As you perform this exercise, you should feel your pelvis roll backward. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then relax. Repeat this exercise 10 more times, and do it at least once a day.
Trunk Rotation
To perform this exercise, you will need a pillow or a rolled towel. Begin by lying on your back and placing a towel under your head. Bend both knees, and plant your feet firmly on the ground. Contract your abdominal muscles and hold this contraction. Bring both knees together and slowly roll your knees to one side of your body. Bring your knees back to the starting position, and roll them to the opposite side of your body. Return your knees to the starting position, and relax your abdominal muscles. Repeat this exercise 5 more times and do it at least once daily. Gradually increase to one set of 10 repetitions performed twice daily.
Stomach Strengthening
Strengthening your abdominal muscles is an essential part of the recovery process. This exercise targets your core abdominal muscles and helps to reduce your recovery time. This exercise is performed while kneeling on all fours. Alternatively, you can rest your arms on a chair while doing this exercise and place a pillow under your knees. Begin by inhaling deeply. As you take a deep breath, begin to contract your abdominal muscles as tight as possible. Hold each contraction for 5 seconds and then relax. Repeat this exercise 10 more times and do it at least once a day.
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