Post-Operative Instructions
Post
Operative Instructions for D&C and/or Hysteroscopy
Now that you are going home after surgery, this information sheet will serve as a guide for things you should and should not do.
Bleeding: Expect some vaginal bleeding for several days. Tampons may be used after several days. Use perineal pads for the first few days.
Pain: Menstrual type cramps and pain in the pelvis are normal after surgery. A sore throat is not unusual after certain anesthetics. These generally go away in a few days. You may use over the counter pain medication such as Tylenol, Advil, or Aspirin for mild pain. Your physician may also give you a prescription for pain medication.
Bathing: Showers or tub baths are permissible one day after surgery.
Diet: Begin with clear liquids and you may resume a normal diet tonight. Avoid spicy greasy foods. If you experience nausea or vomiting, resume clear liquids until these symptoms subside. NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES for 48 hours or while taking pain medications.
Activities: REST for the first day after your surgery. After that you may gradually return to normal activities. You may DRIVE when you no longer need pain medication (it may make you drowsy!!) You may RETURN TO WORK two days after surgery, barring complications.
Sexual Relations: Sexual relations are permissible one week after surgery.
Menstrual Periods: Expect a menstrual flow, which is similar to a normal menstrual period; however, some irregular bleeding may be expected the first few weeks.
Problems: Call us if you develop chills, fever, excessive vaginal bleeding, excessive pain, or persistent nausea or vomiting.
Appointment: You should be seen in about two weeks in your physicians' office. Call for an appointment the day following surgery to insure an appointment is available.
CALL YOUR PHYSICIANS OFFICE IF PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS ARISE BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT.
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POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR LAPAROSCOPY
Procedure:
Individual reactions to general anesthesia are quite variable. Some patients have no complaints the day after laparoscopy, while others report a feeling of general tiredness for several days. Your recovery may take longer depending on the amount of surgery performed during your laparoscopy. You may have a sore throat for the first 24 hours due to the airway placed in your windpipe during the procedure. There may be aches in your shoulders and chest due to the carbon dioxide placed inside your abdomen. This should disappear within a few days. However, the pain can be relieved by lying flat in bed or in the knee-chest position. You may also notice nausea. This usually is not severe and resolves in a day or so. If not, please let us know.
Diet: As soon as you feel like it, you may eat any food or drink that you desire in moderation. It is suggested that no alcohol be consumed for 24 hours following your surgery. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids tonight if nausea is not a problem.
Activity: You should not drive your automobile for 24 hours. Patients will vary as to when they can resume full activity, with some performing a full day's work the day after surgery and others preferring to wait four to five days before assuming their daily routine.
Sexual Intercourse: It is preferable to avoid intercourse until after you are seen for your postoperative appointment.
Pain: If you have a sore throat, use a standard non-prescription anesthetic lozenge or gargle. For shoulder or chest pain, two Tylenol every four hours usually controls the discomfort. Stronger medicine has been prescribed if you need it.
NOTIFY YOUR DOCTOR OF ANY INCREASE IN ABDOMINAL PAIN NOT CONTROLLED BY MEDICATION GIVEN TO YOU.
Wounds: Usually the stitches are "hidden" beneath the skin and will dissolve in time. Visible stitches may be noted in the incisions above your pubic bone. These will be removed at your post-operative visit. The Band-Aid may be removed at your first bath. Don't be alarmed if there is bruising over the lower abdomen. You may shower or tub bathe; do not be afraid to wash the wound with soap and water; however, do not rub. Report any signs of infection (pus, marked swelling, redness, or fever over 100)
Menstruation: Generally, there is no change in menstrual pattern. Occasionally, however, menses will start several days earlier or later than expected. Sometimes there is slight bleeding following surgery due to the mechanics of the operation; if needed, continue to use a pad at home. Call if there is excessive bleeding (heavier than a normal period).
Return Appointment: Make an appointment to see the Doctor 1 week after surgery. If you have any other problems, do not hesitate to call the office.
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POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR LAPAROTOMY/MYOMECTOMY
General Activity: During the first two weeks following your dismissal from the hospital, gradually increase your activity, as your strength will permit. By the second week, you may begin doing light work tasks. DO NOT perform any heavy lifting for at least one month.
Incision: Your abdominal incision has been closed in multiple layers with stitches that do not have to be removed. The skin has been closed with staples (which will be removed) or a hidden stitch (which will dissolve). If there are any tape strips to support the edges of your incision, leave them on until they peel off (1 week). Do not be afraid to wash the incision with soap and water; however, do not rub. If you have gauze dressing over the incision, this may be removed at your first bath. Report any signs of infection (pus, marked swelling, redness, or fever over 100).
Vaginal Discharge: It is normal to have some bloody discharge several days after surgery. If the bleeding should become much heavier than a period, please call us.
Constipation: If necessary, a mild laxative such as Peri-Colace or Dialose Plus may be taken. These are available at your
pharmacy without a prescription. Take according to label instructions.
Gas Pains: Gas Pains are uncommon after this type of surgery. If they do occur, use an adult glycerin suppository rectally. If this does not provide relief, please call your doctor for further instructions.
Sexual Intercourse: Intercourse should be postponed until four weeks after surgery or until after you have had your post-operative checkup.
Pain: It is common to have some generalized aches and pains for 1 to 3 weeks after surgery. Take two Tylenol for mild pain, and use stronger medicine prescribed by your doctor if necessary. NOTIFY YOUR DOCTOR OF ANY INCREASE IN ABDOMINAL PAIN NOT CONTROLLED BY MEDICATION GIVEN TO YOU.
Menstruation: Don't be alarmed if your next period starts earlier than anticipated.
Return Appointment: Make an appointment to see your doctor 4 weeks after surgery or 1 week if you have staples to be removed. As always, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to call the office.
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