A hysterectomy removes a woman's uterus due to a variety of medical complications ranging from cancer to infection. Part of the reproductive system, the uterus carries a baby during pregnancy. After a hysterectomy, a woman will no longer be able to have children. After the surgery, a special diet is recommended while your body recovers. Most patients stay hospitalized for between two and three days after a hysterectomy.
Initial Diet
During the hysterectomy you will receive anesthesia. After waking up from surgery, you will continue to feel the aftereffects of this medication. To prevent choking or aspirating, most medical doctors will not allow anything by mouth until bowel sounds return. A health care professional will listen to your stomach using a stethoscope to hear bowel sounds. At first you may only be allowed ice chips and then clear liquids. Clear liquids include any transparent liquids such as tea, water, sports drinks and other beverages that are transparent. Consuming these liquids without an upset stomach, nausea or vomiting will determine if you are ready for regular liquids.
Full Liquid Diet
After tolerating a clear liquid diet, most post-operative hysterectomy patients follow a full clear liquid diet. The diet includes all liquids, such as milk shakes, broths, sodas and juices. Some foods, such as gelatin, ice pops and even pudding, are allowed on this diet, depending on your specific doctor's instructions.
Soft Food Diet
You will continue to gradually progress to eating regular foods after your hysterectomy by following a soft food diet. Your body and gastrointestinal tract will continue to gain strength after the surgery, but you must choose easy to chew and swallow foods. These foods include tender meats and fish, refined breads, pastas and rice. Fruits and vegetables should be soft and easy to chew. Do not eat raw fruits and vegetables, especially those containing peels and seeds, advises the UCLA Health Center.
Regular Diet and Additional Guidelines
You may resume regular foods as soon as you experience a bowel movement, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you are having trouble moving your bowels, speak to your medical doctor. A stool softener may be recommended as well as high-fiber foods. Regular movement is recommended. Do not stay inactive and bed bound. Moving your body increases recovery time, regular bowel movements and the decreased risk of blood clots. Still, it is important to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting.
