What To Expect 8 Weeks After A Hysterectomy – If you’ve had a hysterectomy, you’re probably wondering what to expect in the weeks and months following the surgery. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect in the next few weeks. In the first few days after the surgery, you’ll likely feel tired and sore. You may also have some vaginal bleeding and discharge. It’s important to rest and take it easy during this time. Within a week or two, you should start to feel better. The bleeding and discharge should lessen. You may still have some bloating and discomfort.
At eight weeks, you should be feeling almost back to normal. The incision should be healed, and you should be able to return to most normal activities. You may still have some occasional discomfort, but it should be manageable.
What To Expect 8 Weeks After A Hysterectomy
The recovery process can vary from person to person, but here are some general things that you can expect after a hysterectomy:
1. Pain and discomfort
Most people experience some pain and discomfort after a hysterectomy, although the intensity and duration vary from person to person. The majority of people will need pain relief for the first few days after surgery.
The level of pain you experience will depend on the type of hysterectomy you have had. A laparoscopic hysterectomy, for example, is a minimally invasive procedure and usually causes less pain than an open abdominal hysterectomy.
Most people will be able to return to their normal activities and routine within a few weeks. However, it is important to listen to your body and take things at your own pace. Some people may need up to eight weeks to recover fully.
2. Change in hormone levels
After a hysterectomy, your hormone levels will change. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. These changes are most common in women who have their ovaries removed along with their uterus (total hysterectomy). If your ovaries are not removed, you may still experience some changes in your hormone levels, but they will not be as drastic.
3. Increase in energy levels
Most people report feeling more energetic 8 weeks after a hysterectomy. This is likely due to the removal of the uterus, which is a very taxing organ. Additionally, many women report feeling less pain and discomfort after the procedure, which also contributes to increased energy levels.
4. Return of menstrual cycle
Most women will have their first period about 6 to 8 weeks after a hysterectomy. However, this can vary from woman to woman. Some women may have their first period sooner, while others may have to wait a bit longer. It all depends on your individual body and healing process.
5. Restricted activity
Most women will need to take it easy for the first few weeks after a hysterectomy. This means avoiding any strenuous activity, such as lifting heavy objects or exercising. You may also need to take several days off work to recover. Many women feel well enough to return to their normal activities after about 4-6 weeks.
6. Lighter bleeding
At eight weeks after a hysterectomy, most women will have lighter bleeding than they did before the surgery. This is because the surgery removes the uterus, which is the organ that houses the baby during pregnancy and sheds its lining each month during menstruation. If you had your ovaries removed as well, you will no longer have periods. If you still have your ovaries, your periods may be lighter or may stop altogether.
7. Increased libido
One of the common side effects of a hysterectomy is an increase in libido. This is due to the removal of the uterus, which can lead to an increase in testosterone levels. This side effect is most common in women who have their ovaries removed as well. While this may be a positive side effect for some women, it can also be a source of anxiety or stress for others. If you are experiencing an increase in libido, talk to your doctor about ways to manage it.
8. Improvement in overall health and wellbeing
Most people report feeling better overall after a hysterectomy. This is likely due to the relief of symptoms that were present before the surgery. However, it is important to remember that a hysterectomy is a major surgery and your body will need time to recover. It is normal to feel tired and sore for the first few weeks after surgery. You may also have some vaginal discharge and mild constipation. These side effects should improve with time.
In conclusion, it is important to remember that every woman is different and will recover from a hysterectomy at her own pace. However, in general, most women can expect to feel better and have more energy 8 weeks after surgery. It is also common to experience some hot flashes and night sweats during this time, but they typically disappear after a few weeks. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to talk to your doctor.