Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Your Hospital Recovery

Recovery right after surgery

After the procedure is finished, you’ll spend a few hours in the recovery area. You may feel drowsy or nauseated from the anesthesia. You may also have shoulder pain due to the gas used to expand your belly (abdomen). Your throat may be sore and you may be hoarse due to the breathing tube used during surgery.

What to expect during your hospital stay

Walking soon after surgery helps prevent blood clots and breathing problems.

During your stay in the hospital or surgery center, the staff will look after you and help you prepare to go home. During this time:

• You will be asked to walk around to help improve breathing and blood flow.

• You will be given medicine for any pain you have. Tell your nurse if you are uncomfortable.

• Incisions may leak a small amount of pinkish fluid for the first couple of days.

• Spotting from the vagina may occur. If so, ask the nurse for a sanitary pad.

• You will be shown how to clear your lungs to prevent infections.

• The catheter may be left in place for a short time after surgery. You’ll be checked to make sure you can urinate without the catheter before you go home.

• Your meals can include solid food as soon as you feel ready.