Home Women's Health How to reduce inflammation of the abdomen after a hysterectomy

How to reduce inflammation of the abdomen after a hysterectomy

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on
Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is a necessary surgery and, therefore, it involves particular care. Still, even if you follow all the medical indications to the letter, you may notice some swelling in your abdomen the following days, which is normal due to the mobilization of tissues performed during the procedure.

In this FastlyHealarticle, we explain this surgery and how to reduce abdomen inflammation after a hysterectomy.

What is hysterectomy

hysterectomy is a surgery for which the uterus is removed, can further remove the neck uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The decision depends on the problem for which the surgery is being performed.

On the other hand, there are different ways to perform this type of surgery, which will depend both on the specific problem that leads to the surgery and on the skill and criteria of the doctor. Among the techniques that can be used are:

  • Abdominal hysterectomy: an incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen, with which it can be worked comfortably when the surgeon needs to see the state of the uterus and all the organs near it.
  • Vaginal hysterectomy: there are cases in which the approach can be made through the vagina, and the uterus is removed through it. It tends to bother a little less. Recovery can be faster than the previous method, but it is limited if the operator needs more vision or a giant uterus.
  • Laparoscopic hysterectomy: here, small incisions are made in the abdominal wall to insert the surgical instruments, gases are insufflated to distend the abdomen and thus work comfortably.

hysterectomy

Why does the abdomen swell in a hysterectomy?

Going through a hysterectomy can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable for the first few days. There are different reasons why you may feel that inflammation:

  • By opening the abdomen (in the case of abdominal hysterectomy).
  • For the mobilization of internal organs and the manipulation of tissues.
  • In the case of laparoscopic hysterectomy, you may notice swelling due to the insufflated gases during the surgery. Although they are aspirated before the end of the procedure, there may be a remnant that becomes annoying.
  • The intestines and the entire digestive system can be quieted after surgery by the same manipulation, it is what is known as ileus, and it will cost gas and defecation at first. It is momentary, and if it lasts, you should consult with your doctor.

To improve the pain, your doctor will prescribe painkillers. In addition, it will indicate certain cares that you must respect so that the healing is faster and more complete.

How to reduce inflammation of a swollen belly after a hysterectomy

There are some measures that your surgeon will surely recommend to achieve deflating the abdomen after a hysterectomy as soon as possible, and that will help you recover in the best way:

  • After surgery, try to move slowly and slowly, but as soon as possible. This is an excellent way to get your intestines working correctly again.
  • Walk periodically: as soon as the professional who intervened in you authorize it, you should do it frequently, without exerting yourself or causing you pain.
  • Drink water: from the moment you are told that you can do it, drink water and not other sugary liquids or sweeteners, much less gas or alcohol. It is an excellent key to reestablishing the normal functioning of the digestive system and the rest of the body. Proper hydration will prevent constipation, making you feel bloated and leading to complications in the surgical wound from straining when going to the bathroom.
  • Do not make effortsdo not lift heavy things, but keep moving. We have already said it, but it is imperative!
  • You can apply cold compresses to the abdomen. In this way, you can relieve pain and facilitate the reduction of inflammation in the operated area.
  • Eat only if you’re hungry, don’t force yourself if you don’t feel like it.
  • If you are going to cough or sneeze, you should place a cushion (or something soft, like a blanket) on your abdomen. In this way, you prevent the effort from damaging your wound.
  • Taking deep breaths is a way to keep your lungs active and help your digestive system recover.

What to eat after a hysterectomy

Pay close attention to your diet. The foods that will make you feel more bloated should be avoided, among them: flours (especially wheat, this includes bread, pasta, and all foods with gluten), dairy, starch (potato, rice, etc.), meats (they are digested very slowly), sugar.

It is better to consume those foods that will help you recover provide you with energy without your body working too hard to process them. The most important are:

  • All kinds of raw fruits and vegetables: try to eat them away from other foods or make them your main meal, as they are very easily digested. If you are one of those who is afraid that cabbage, broccoli, or cauliflower could bloat you, it is the opposite, but do not mix them with other cooked foods, much less flour.
  • Legumes: it is an excellent source of protein, in addition to the many minerals, fiber, and vitamins. Avoid soy, since it is not very good, except that it is fermented for several months, but since it is not usually prepared that way, it is indigestible and toxic. An excellent way to consume lentils, chickpeas, beans is to let them germinate and thus incorporate them into your diet. At that point, they are even richer in minerals and vitamins.
  • Nuts: a small dose of some dried fruit is advisable every day. They contain good fats that help the body to function effectively.
  • Honey: it is excellent healing, both externally and internally. Do not apply it to the wound unless your surgeon authorizes it, but use it to sweeten infusions or drink it away from meals diluted in warm water. This way will help your immune system keep your stomach and intestines healthy.

If you have any questions or unusual symptoms, you should contact your surgeon.

This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.

Suppose you want to read more articles similar to How to reduce abdomen inflammation after a hysterectomy. In that case, we recommend that you enter our category of the Female reproductive system.

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