Vitamins work to improve the overall health of the body, and they are also beneficial when recovering from an illness or medical procedure. Certain vitamins have been found to especially help with hysterectomy recovery by repairing the affected area, encouraging healing and calming painful side effects.
Vitamins can improve hysterectomy recovery.
Significance
A hysterectomy is an out-patient procedure consisting of the removal of the uterus. Though an abdominal hysterectomy has a longer recovery time than a vaginal hysterectomy, both involve significant recovery time, sometimes more than a month. Women are usually placed on heavy pain medications and are instructed to limit physical activity, driving or lifting. Due to this long recovery process, taking vitamins to speed healing is beneficial.
Benefits
Vitamins taken before surgery can positively affect recovery. Weeks before a hysterectomy, take a daily multivitamin. Ensuring that the body gets all of the necessary nutrients will improve overall health and strength, making it easier to recover from surgery. Some vitamins taken after the surgery will also help reduce unpleasant side effects that result from a hysterectomy, such as constipation or nausea.
Types
After surgery, continue to take the multivitamin and take plenty of vitamin C. It helps to form collagen, which can improve healing and shorten recovery time. Zinc and vitamin A also reduce healing time by increasing activity of cells in the body. When administered topically, vitamin A can reduce the appearance of scars. Vitamin E will help prevent internal scar tissue. All of these vitamins improve the overall health of the body as well, making side effects more bearable.
Warning
When taken correctly, these vitamins will also help reduce the painful side effects of a hysterectomy. However, some vitamin-rich foods can be irritants. Whole dairy foods are a significant source of vitamin A, but too much dairy can cause constipation. Many women are already suffering from constipation while recovering from surgery, so it is a good idea to avoid foods that can make constipation and nausea worse. Be careful about selecting foods while increasing vitamin intake.
Recovery
In addition to increasing vitamin intake, drink plenty of water while recovering from a hysterectomy. Spend the time relaxing and avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting and sexual activity until your doctor approves these activities. Some women may also be instructed not to drive or consume alcohol, especially if medications are prescribed.
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