On your first postoperative day it is normal to experience some:

• Feeling tired or sleepy.
• Discomfort on swallowing (effect of the inserted anesthetic tube).
• Mild pain in the wound.
• Mild feeling of distension, bloating or constipation until your bowel movements restart.

Advices

• Try to move your legs and bend your knees frequently in bed.
• It is important to try to stand up +/- walk for few steps on the first evening after surgery.
• You are not allowed more than few sips of water until your doctor says otherwise.
• You will be given intravenous fluids to keep you hydrated.

The wound

• This should be left dry and covered during the first 2-3 days. Then, you may leave the wound uncovered as long as it is dry and clean. You may clean it with soap and water using a soft sponge with no friction.
• There is usually no need to remove any stitches since these will be self-absorbable (unless you are told otherwise).
• The wound usually heals completely within 7-10 days.
• It is best to wear loose underwear or short underpants/trousers (100% cotton).
• You may do light housework within 1-2 weeks, but you are advised to avoid driving, sexual intercourse or hard work/exercise during the first 4-6 weeks.

Symptoms to be reported to the doctor as soon as possible

• Vaginal bleeding.
• Fever.
• Discharge or secretions from the wound.
• Leg swelling
• Chest pain or difficulty in breathing.

Most patients would feel well enough to leave the hospital 24-48 hours after surgery.

Wishing you Health & Happiness