Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus (womb), and sometimes the cervix and other reproductive organs. After this surgery, menstrual periods stop and pregnancy is no longer possible. Recovery can take several weeks, and physiotherapy plays an important role in restoring strength, improving mobility, and supporting overall recovery. At ACE Physio Sports, specialised physiotherapy programmes help women safely return to daily activities and regain confidence after surgery.
What is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the uterus, and in some cases additional reproductive organs such as the cervix, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.
The surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep and does not feel pain during the procedure.
There are several types of hysterectomy procedures:
Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
The uterus and cervix are removed through an incision in the abdomen.
Subtotal Hysterectomy
Only the uterus is removed while the cervix remains.
Vaginal Hysterectomy
The uterus and cervix are removed through the vagina without abdominal incisions.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Small incisions are made in the abdomen and surgical instruments are guided using a camera.
Radical (Wertheim’s) Hysterectomy
The uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and part of the vagina are removed, usually for cancer treatment.
Each type of procedure may require a slightly different recovery process.
Causes
A hysterectomy may be recommended to treat several medical conditions affecting the uterus or reproductive organs.
Common reasons include:
- Uterine fibroids
- Severe endometriosis
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Uterine prolapse
- Gynecological cancers
- Severe pelvic infections
Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate surgical approach based on your condition.
Symptoms
After hysterectomy surgery, it is normal to experience temporary symptoms as the body heals.
Common post-surgery symptoms include:
- Pain around the surgical area
- Reduced physical strength and endurance
- Swelling around the incision site
- Bruising near the surgical wound
- Scar formation
- Temporary numbness due to nerve irritation
These symptoms typically improve gradually during recovery.
What Should I Do?
If you are preparing for a hysterectomy, it is beneficial to begin pre-operative physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy before surgery helps:
- Improve muscle strength
- Maintain mobility and fitness
- Prepare the body for recovery
- Reduce the risk of post-surgery complications
After surgery, it is important to follow your personalised rehabilitation plan to support safe recovery.
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy Before a Hysterectomy
Pre-surgical physiotherapy helps prepare the body for surgery and recovery.
At ACE Physio Sports, pre-operative physiotherapy may include:
- Upper limb strengthening exercises
- Pelvic floor muscle training
- Core stability exercises for the transverse abdominis
- Cardiovascular exercises such as walking or cycling
- Hydrotherapy sessions
- Lower limb strengthening exercises
- Education about post-surgery recovery
These exercises help improve strength and support a smoother recovery.
Physiotherapy After a Hysterectomy
Early Phase (First Week)
During the early stage of recovery, physiotherapy focuses on gentle movement and pain management.
Treatment may include:
- Advice on scar care and wound management
- Pelvic floor strengthening exercises
- Pain management strategies
- Elevation techniques to reduce swelling
- Gentle mobility exercises such as short walks
- Core activation exercises
- Lower limb strengthening exercises
Intermediate Phase (Weeks 2–6)
As recovery progresses, physiotherapy focuses on improving strength and daily function.
Treatment may include:
- Progression of strengthening exercises
- Upper limb mobility and strengthening exercises
- Advanced core stability exercises
- Functional pelvic floor training
- Gradual return to normal daily activities
- Guidance on pacing and increasing activity safely
Advanced Phase (Week 7 and Beyond)
By this stage, many patients begin returning to normal activities.
Physiotherapy may include:
- Functional exercises related to work and hobbies
- Strength and endurance training
- Gradual return to lifting activities
- Fitness training such as walking, swimming, or cycling
- Advice on safely returning to driving (often around 12 weeks)
Heavy lifting should generally be avoided for up to six months to protect healing tissues.
What Shouldn’t I Do?
After a hysterectomy, certain activities should be avoided during early recovery.
Avoid:
- Heavy lifting during the first few months
- Strenuous exercise too soon after surgery
- Ignoring persistent pain or swelling
- Returning to intense activities without physiotherapy guidance
- Overexerting yourself during early recovery
Following your physiotherapist’s advice helps ensure safe healing.
Long-Term Effects or Recovery
Recovery after a hysterectomy varies depending on the type of surgery and individual health.
With proper physiotherapy rehabilitation, patients can expect:
- Improved strength and endurance
- Better pelvic floor support
- Increased mobility and confidence
- Safe return to daily activities and exercise
Physiotherapy helps reduce the risk of long-term complications and improves overall quality of life.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports, our physiotherapists provide specialised women’s health physiotherapy to support recovery after hysterectomy surgery.
Our rehabilitation approach includes:
- Personalised physiotherapy treatment plans
- Pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Core strengthening exercises
- Post-surgical recovery support
- Functional rehabilitation for daily activities
Our goal is to help women recover safely, regain strength, and return confidently to normal life.
Book Appointment
If you are preparing for or recovering from a hysterectomy, the physiotherapists at ACE Physio Sports can support your recovery.
Website https://acephysiosport.com
Phone / WhatsApp +65 81535374
Email admin@acephysiosport.com
Book your physiotherapy appointment today and start your post-surgery rehabilitation programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
What movements should I avoid after Hysterectomy?
In the early weeks, hip precautions typically include avoiding bending past 90°, crossing legs, and rotating the foot inward. Your physiotherapist will clearly guide you through all precautions specific to your surgery type and help you apply them safely at home.
How long before I can climb stairs comfortably after Hysterectomy?
Most patients manage stairs with assistance within 1–2 weeks, and independently by 4–6 weeks. Physiotherapy focuses on building hip strength and confidence for everyday mobility milestones throughout the recovery process.
How long does full recovery from Hysterectomy take?
Most people reach functional independence within 6–12 weeks. Full recovery — including returning to activities like sport, gardening, or hiking — can take 3–12 months. Consistent physiotherapy is the key to achieving the best long-term outcome.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
Book an Appointment