Post-Operative FAQs

We understand that recovering after surgery can raise many questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help guide you through your recovery. If you have further concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

What should I take home from the hospital?

Before leaving the hospital, ensure you have:

Any medications you brought with you and any new prescriptions provided during your stay.
Any operation photographs or reports given to you by hospital staff.

How much pain is normal after surgery, and how can I manage it?

Mild to moderate pain is normal and should improve over the first week. For laparoscopic surgeries, shoulder tip or rib cage pain caused by residual gas under the diaphragm may last up to 72 hours.

To manage pain:

Use a combination of simple Paracetamol and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (e.g., Nurofen, Voltaren, Ponstan) as directed. Always take medications with food.
Heat packs are effective for relieving shoulder tip pain.
Avoid stronger painkillers unless prescribed for breakthrough pain, which can be useful to assist a good night’s sleep.

If your pain worsens suddenly or is not controlled, contact us immediately.

How long will vaginal bleeding last?

It is normal to experience vaginal bleeding for up to two weeks, though for hysterectomies or LEEP procedures, spotting may last longer.

Seek medical advice if:

Bleeding becomes heavier instead of lighter.
You notice large clots or have heavy bleeding that soaks a pad within an hour.

For patients with a Mirena IUD inserted, refer to the below.

When can I resume normal activities?

Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery:

Day Procedures: Avoid heavy lifting, housework, or cooking for the first 24 hours.
Operative Laparoscopy: Mobilise gently for one week before resuming normal activities gradually.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: All patients are given 6 weeks personal leave. Ease back into daily tasks slowly and follow the detailed recovery guidance sheet from MIGYNAE.
Open Surgeries: Follow individualised advice from your surgeon.

Swimming, baths, and spas should generally be avoided for two weeks. For hysterectomies or LEEP procedures, this restriction may last longer—consult your surgeon for specific guidance.

How do I manage constipation after surgery?

Constipation is common after surgery due to medications, reduced activity, and changes in diet. To prevent or relieve constipation:

Drink plenty of water (6–8 glasses daily).
Eat high-fibre foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Consider taking a stool softener or gentle laxative as recommended by your pharmacist or doctor.
Avoid straining during bowel movements.

If constipation persists for more than three days, contact your GP or our office for advice.

How do I care for my wound?

Keep your dressing on for up to seven days unless it becomes wet or peels off earlier.
Your dressing is waterproof, so showering is safe.
Replace the dressing with a semi-waterproof one if it peels off within five days.
Dissolvable sutures usually are not visible. If visible, they typically fall off within 2–4 weeks.

If your wound becomes swollen, hot, or painful, contact us immediately.

What are the signs of infection I should look out for?

Be alert for:

High fever, chills, or sweating.
Sudden onset of severe pain not relieved by medication.
Abnormal vaginal discharge or increased bleeding.
Wound redness, swelling, or discharge.

If you notice any of these, contact your GP, our office at 9500 1828, or after-hours services at 9387 1000.

When can I resume sexual activity?

You can resume sexual activity two weeks after surgery if you feel comfortable and are pain-free, even if there is light spotting.

The exception is patients who have had any type of hysterectomy. In that case, you can only resume sexual activity after 6 completed weeks after surgery.

When will I have my post-operative follow-up?

Your post-operative appointment could be scheduled between 1–12 weeks after surgery. Generally you will receive your pathology results prior. You’ll receive details in an “IMPORTANT LETTER FROM MIGYNAE”, sent via email the day before your surgery.

What should I do if I have additional concerns?

If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at 9500 1828. For emergencies, page your surgeon at 9387 1000 or visit the emergency department of the hospital where your surgery was performed.

When can I go back to the gym or exercise?

The timeline for returning to the gym or resuming exercise depends on the type of surgery you’ve had:

Hysteroscopy or Day Surgery: Light exercise, such as walking, can usually be resumed after 1–2 days. Avoid strenuous activities, including gym workouts, for at least one week.
Operative Laparoscopy: Gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, can typically be resumed after two weeks, as tolerated. Avoid high-impact or abdominal exercises (e.g., weightlifting, running) for 4–6 weeks to protect healing tissue.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Start with light activities after two weeks. Avoid heavy lifting, core exercises, or high-impact activities for at least six weeks to allow adequate internal healing. A table of activities will be provided to you following surgery.
Open Surgery: Exercise restrictions will depend on individual recovery. Follow your surgeon’s specific guidance.

For all procedures, listen to your body and ease back into exercise. If you experience discomfort or pain during activity, stop and consult your surgeon.

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