I. Wound Care After Fibroid Surgery
Keep your abdominal incision dry after discharge. Delay bathing for one week and avoid tub baths. Sutures are usually freshly removed at discharge, with needle holes not fully healed and scabs still present, so full bathing is not recommended. You may maintain general hygiene with sponge baths. Clean the perineal area every night and after bowel movements.
II. Pain Management
- Incisional Pain: Mild pulling or occasional stabbing pain at the abdominal incision is normal after discharge. If pain is severe, check for redness or swelling to rule out infection. If pus drains, return to the hospital for dressing changes. For redness and swelling only, use an infrared lamp over the abdomen twice daily for 20 minutes each session, at a comfortable heat level.
- Lower Back Pain: Mild soreness usually improves with rest within a few days. Severe pain requires medical evaluation to rule out anesthesia-related effects, and medication may be prescribed if needed.
- Pain on Urination: Most patients do not experience this. Some may have radiating lower abdominal pain during urination due to minor bladder irritation from pelvic dissection, which resolves spontaneously. Drink plenty of water and empty your bladder promptly without holding urine. Urethral pain may indicate a urinary tract infection; mild cases improve with increased fluid intake, while severe cases require further medical care.
III. Possible Abnormal Symptoms After Surgery
- Vaginal Bleeding: After intramural or submucous myomectomy, slight vaginal bleeding is normal for up to 10 days. Seek medical attention if bleeding lasts more than two weeks.
- Bleeding After Subtotal Hysterectomy: Usually absent, but occasional light bleeding may occur around the usual menstrual cycle if the cervical resection line is high, depending on residual endometrial tissue.
- Discharge After Total Hysterectomy: Slight yellow or blood-tinged discharge may appear 10–15 days postoperatively and resolves on its own. Purulent discharge suggests infection or vaginitis and requires prompt treatment. Severe vaginal bleeding after any hysterectomy may indicate suture rupture and needs emergency care.
IV. Postoperative Diet
Maintain a light, easily digestible diet rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits to avoid constipation, which may strain and rupture the vaginal stump.
V. Postoperative Sexual Activity
Sexual intercourse is prohibited for one month after myomectomy. After subtotal hysterectomy, resume sex after two months with normal follow-up; after total hysterectomy, wait three months. Many women experience anxiety about femininity and intimacy, but these concerns are unnecessary. Discussing worries with medical staff can relieve anxiety and support healthy sexual function.