Recovery from Hysterectomy

Most women remain in the hospital for one or two days after a hysterectomy with some staying up to four days. Within four to eight weeks, most women are able to resume normal activities with sexual intercourse resuming in about six to eight weeks. Recovery from vaginal hysterectomy is usually more rapid than recovery from abdominal hysterectomy.

The first two to three weeks of recovery should consist primarily of rest with no lifting. After two to three weeks, most women may begin doing light chores and some driving, and possibly return to work if it is not too physically demanding. By the sixth week, most women are able to take tub baths and resume sexual activities.

Important Recovery Tips to Remember

• Eat a balanced diet with iron replacement to promote healing.
• Use stool softeners and drink 8 glasses of fluids each day to prevent constipation and reduce painful bowel movements.
• Heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Walking is advised every day.
• Exercise programs should be followed as directed.
• Sex should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery to allow the vagina and internal structures to heal.
• Your health care provider may have further instructions specific to your recovery.

Emotional Recovery

For some women, emotional recovery is as important as physical recovery after a hysterectomy. Concerns may include:

• Anxiety. Some anxiety before surgery is to be expected but more serious anxiety or depression should be discussed immediately with a health care provider.
• Grief. For some women, loss of the ability to become pregnant is an issue to come to terms with themselves and with their partners.
• Fear. Many women fear losing their ability to have satisfying sexual relationships after surgery. Some studies show that sexual function may improve after hysterectomy. In a 2-year study of more than 1,100 Maryland women 35-49 years of age who had undergone hysterectomy, significant improvements were found in libido and frequency of sexual relations, enjoyment, orgasm frequency, and relief from painful intercourse.1
• Physical changes. Hormone levels after hysterectomy can change dramatically. Many women are concerned about premature aging and menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Natural hormone therapy is often recommended for women after hysterectomy.

1. Rhodes, Kjerulff, and Langenberg. JAMA 282: 1934-41, 1999 (AHRQ grant HS06865).