A hysterectomy is a procedure involving surgical removal of your uterus. Surgeons usually perform this if you have a tumor in your uterus, an infection or endometriosis. Like most surgeries, you receive anesthesia and will not be able to eat solid food immediately after the surgery. Follow your physician’s instructions regarding care and diet following a hysterectomy.
Hysterectomy
During a hysterectomy, the surgeon removes your uterus through the abdomen or the vagina. Depending on the reasons for the hysterectomy, he might only remove the uterus, or he might also remove the cervix and part of the vagina. Hysterectomies can be inpatient or outpatient procedures depending on the reason for the surgery. A laparoscopic hysterectomy allows you to return home the same day because of smaller incisions. No matter what type of hysterectomy you have, however, you will have restricted activities for a few weeks while you recover.
Immediately Following Surgery
You will have a restricted diet right after a hysterectomy. Your medical provider will use a stethoscope to listen to your stomach for bowel sounds. Your diet starts with ice chips. After that, if you are feeling well, you can have liquids such as water, juice, broth and soda. When your bowels begin working normally, and if you haven't had any problems drinking liquids, you can graduate to soft foods such as applesauce, ice cream or yogurt.
Regular Foods
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you can return to a normal diet after you have a normal bowel movement. Generally, after a hysterectomy, there are no food or drink restrictions and you can eat the same as before the operation. You might want food that is easy to prepare when you return home if you cook for yourself. Assure that you eat enough protein to aid in your healing and recovery time.
Precautions
Talk to your surgeon or doctor about specific foods that you should avoid following surgery. Everyone’s situation differs. Some women who have been through the procedure recommend avoiding foods that cause gas, such as broccoli or beans. Avoid extra-spicy foods until you recover completely. Eat plenty of fiber, drink water, and rest to help your body heal. Follow your surgeon’s instructions to aid in recovery. Avoid lifting anything heavy for six weeks after the procedure.
References
- Drugs.com: Abdominal Hysterectomy
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Hysterectomy - All Information; Susan Storck; Februrary 2009
- Hystersisters: Diet and Food Suggestions for Recovery
- MayoClinic.com; Abdominal Hysterectomy; March 2010
- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Hysterectomy
