A hysterectomy -- surgery to remove a woman's uterus -- is performed either vaginally or abdominally, depending on whether other problems exist, as well as your general fitness levels. Recovery usually is quicker following a vaginal hysterectomy, though you'll be out of commission for at least a couple of weeks either way. Bleeding is common after a hysterectomy but should not last more than two weeks at the most.
Precautions
In the hospital, you'll be encouraged to get up and walk by the next day after your surgery. Recovery from either kind of hysterectomy is quicker when you start moving right away. Expect to have vaginal bleeding, so wear a sanitary pad. Continue to protect your clothing with pads even as you resume your normal activities. Scar tissue is being discharged that makes up for the majority of the blood. Because of the continued blood loss, you should follow your doctor's directions about the intensity and duration of your exercise and when you can return to your normal workouts.
Variations
The amount of bleeding you'll encounter for the first few weeks after a hysterectomy depends on a number of factors. Your fitness level and physical health before the surgery, as well as your age all play into how quickly you'll recover. If you've been fairly active before the surgery, you shouldn't experience abnormal bleeding once your return to your exercise routine. You'll need to start back slowly because of the pain medication you may need for the first four to six weeks, but moderate exercise should not increase the blood flow.
Intensity
Avoid strenuous exercise for four to six weeks to prevent opening any incisions that were made. The additional pressure of high-impact exercises such as running or aerobic dance could cause additional bleeding. Reduce the amount of weight you lift during your strengthening routines to avoid additional pressure on your insides. Avoid picking up more than 10 lbs. for the first six weeks.
Complications
Rather than additional bleeding, you may develop stress incontinence following a hysterectomy and have trouble holding your urine when you exercise. The uterus is close to the nerves in your bladder and often become compromised during the procedure. Kegel exercises can help strengthen your inner uterine walls. Squeezing your vagina as if you are blocking the flow of urine and holding it for a count of 10 is an effective Kegel exercise after a hysterectomy. Release and repeat often throughout the day.
