Best Gifts to Celebrate Recovery from a Hysterectomy Surgery

The word hysterectomy may sound scary, but the reality is that it’s a common procedure that many women go through, especially between the ages of 40 to 50.  

Research shows that an estimated 500,000 women get hysterectomies in the United States. 

What is a hysterectomy surgery?

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. 

It is very important that all options are explained thoroughly with the doctor and any family members or friends involved in the patient’s journey in treatment and recovery. 

Whichever the purpose, this type of surgery changes a woman’s life. Hospital stay and recovery will ultimately depend on the type of procedure chosen and any complications that appear during the surgery. 

The patient will be hospitalized for four to five days if no complications surface. 

During their hospital stay, it’s important to make the patient feel good.  Celebrating with visitations and/or gifts, are definitely things that will keep the patient positive.

Hospitals can be dull and frustrating, and feeling alone will not make the recovery process any better.  Who wouldn’t want an uplifting gift or visit? 

The following list summarizes some creative hysterectomy gifts for post-surgery for the inpatient setting.

Hysterectomy basket

A hysterectomy basket includes women magazines, delicious candies and snacks, a crossword puzzle book, body spray, a candle set, a pair of warm slippers, and a stuffed animal. 

Jewelry

Get her a necklace or bracelet with an inspirational or celebratory quote with the date of the surgery.  It is a keepsake for her to remember such an important day.

Shower spa set

Coming out of surgery feels uncomfortable and drains a patient emotionally. A personal shower spa set is perfect for when the patient needs to shower in the hospital.  It will create a more personal feeling, making the shower more relaxing. 

Warm fuzzy socks

Although the hospital will provide the patient with socks, not everyone likes them. Getting the patient a good pair of socks will make them feel more at home during their stay. Always get more than one pair of socks. One pair is never enough during a hospital stay. 

A warm blanket

This is a very important gift.  Hospitals are cold, and each body reacts differently to cold temperatures.  A warm blanket is sure to put a big smile on the patient’s face. Although hospitals do provide blankets and a pillow, they are not the same as a more personalized fluffy blanket.  

An antibacterial set

Hospitals are full of bacteria and germs. Make her stay a little more fun by gifting her an antibacterial basket set.  Not only will it make her laugh, but it will help with keeping bacteria away.  

Flowers

Flowers are loved by women all over the world. First, it is important to verify with the hospital if real flowers are permitted.  Nowadays, some hospitals only permit fake flowers.

Balloons

Balloons are great for any age.  This will definitely lift spirits up after surgery. Pick the patient’s favorite color with a nice “Get well Soon” message.

Recovery

Outpatient recovery will take a few weeks before the patient is able to go back to work and participate in routine daily activities. 

In addition to celebrating recovery and post-surgery, it is also important for the patient and caregivers to do it in a safe way following all healthcare guidelines and recommendations. 

Additionally, healthcare professionals cannot stress enough that even though the patient just went through a big surgical procedure, they must get plenty of rest, but also need to stand up and move around every couple of hours. 

The caregivers need to accompany the patient in taking short walks, increasing the distance at a gradual pace.  Walking helps lower the risk of blood clots from forming in the lower extremities. 

Caregivers should be advised that the patient is prohibited from lifting heavy objects and working with heavy machinery.  

We must keep in mind that every patient is different and our bodies all react differently to surgery. 

Undoubtedly, one of the most common adverse effects of this type of procedure is premature menopause, fever and infection. 

Moreover, this type of procedure permanently changes certain aspects of a woman’s life. 

However, these changes are positive in most cases and are a good reason to celebrate them. 

For example, there will be no more menstrual periods and the patient will not be able to become pregnant.

On the other hand, many aspects will improve as well such as getting relief from the signs and symptoms that made surgery necessary in the first place. 

Furthermore, if a good sex life was practiced before surgery, studies have shown that some women experience more pleasure after the surgery, due to the relief of their initial symptoms. 

Lastly, their quality of life will be better. 

The days following surgery are by far the most important days for the patient and their caregiver. A good and complete support system is what will help the patient make a quick and smooth recovery.

Surgery was completed and recovery was marvelous, what now? Getting a hysterectomy doesn’t always have to be dull and frustrating. 

There are many ways to celebrate with loved ones a successful surgery and recovery period in the outpatient setting, including:

Getting must-have items 

• For post-op surgery, women want to be comfortable. There is nothing better than bringing in some new clothing for them to wear.  Most women feel tired and have low energy after surgery. One way of making them feel beautiful during their recovery is having some nice leggings or pants  that are both comfortable and pretty. Let the patient know you care and you want them to feel good. It is important to keep in mind that the pants should not have an elastic waistband, because we do not want to bother the incisions. 
• Getting a belly band is another option as well. A belly band will help with the tenderness and firming of the belly and extra skin. 
• Get them fluids to stay hydrated. There is nothing better than water, but after surgery, patients crave a little more than just water. One thing to have on-hand is pure cranberry juice, which helps in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections.  Another option for staying hydrated is tea. However, the tea must be sugar and caffeine-free.
• Give them their favorite snacks for medication times. After surgery, the doctor will prescribe medications such as pain killers.  Pain killers can cause nausea if no food is consumed with them.  

Walking

• After one to two weeks post-surgery, go out for walks. Take some personal time with your family or friends and go for a walk. It is great to get out of the house, breathe in some fresh air, laugh and spend time with your most intimate friends and family.  
• Consider the number of walks you take and the distance of them. Don’t push the patient to do long walks. The walks should be done at the patient’s pace. 

Post-op vacation

• Consider taking the patient to a place they have been wanting to go, but weren’t able to do so because of the condition they had prior to surgery.  

Intimacy

• If before the surgery, the patient had an active sex life, they won’t be able to have intimacy until after six to seven weeks post-surgery.  
• If you’re in a relationship with the patient, and the time has come to have intimacy once again, make her feel special and beautiful.  
• Try something new as a couple, such as an intimate board game, sex cards, or even role play. Keep in mind that anything with the vagina is off-limits at this time.

Let friends and family help

• Many women are independent and like to do their own thing.  However, recovering from a surgery opens up the opportunity to celebrate friendship and family.  Celebrate with them in many ways like helping with household chores, cook for them, having intimate conversations at their bedside, and more.  This will gives the patient and the caregiver the chance to expand a relationship.  

In conclusion, a hysterectomy is a life-changing surgical procedure for women.  It is important that the patient follows up with the healthcare provider, and if any concerns or adverse effects arise, it is important to visit the emergency room as soon as possible. 

A positive surrounding support system is crucial for the recovery process. 

Should any questions arise pre-surgery, post-surgery, or during recovery, always feel free to call the doctor. 

Having a hysterectomy is generally a very common and safe procedure. 

Not only is it considered an effective treatment, but most women will recover fully and present no complications. 

Overall, a prescription of fun and laughter during the recovery period is the best recommendation.

References

1. “Abdominal Hysterectomy.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education, 25 July 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/abdominal-hysterectomy/about/pac-20384559.

2. Clark, Daniel, and Elizabeth Geller. “Complications of Hysterectomy.” Obstetrics and Gynecology, vol. 121, no. 3, Mar. 2013, pp. 654–673., DOI:10.1097/AOG.0b013e3182841594.

3. “Frequently Asked Questions about Hysterectomy.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Oct. 2018, www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Hysterectomy?IsMobileSet=false.

4. S, Melissa Conrad. “Hysterectomy Surgery Risks, Side Effects & Recovery Time.” EMedicineHealth, EMedicineHealth, 29 Jan. 2019, www.emedicinehealth.com/hysterectomy/article_em.htm#what_facts_should_i_know_about_hysterectomy.

5. Werner, Carly. “Hysterectomy.” Healthline, Red Ventures Company, 10 Jan. 2016, www.healthline.com/health/hysterectomy#6.