Tag Archives: cold packs

Protecting Your Incision

Undergoing a hysterectomy is a significant procedure, and proper post-operative care is crucial for a smooth and speedy recovery. One of the most important aspects of your recovery is taking good care of your incision site. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your incision and ensure it heals properly:

1. Keep It Clean and Dry

Your incision site must stay clean and dry to prevent infections. Follow these steps:

Gentle Cleaning: Use mild soap and water to gently clean the area. Avoid scrubbing, and pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Avoid Submersion: Do not submerge the incision in water, such as in a bathtub or swimming pool, until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
Change Dressings: If your doctor has provided specific instructions about dressings, follow them carefully. Change dressings as recommended to keep the area clean.

2. Monitor for Signs of Infection

It’s vital to keep an eye on your incision for any signs of infection. Watch for:

Redness: Some redness around the incision is normal, but it shouldn’t spread or intensify.
Fever: A low-grade fever is common after surgery, but a high fever could indicate an infection.
Excessive Swelling: While some swelling is expected, excessive swelling or unusual discharge can be a warning sign.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

3. Protect the Area

Protecting your incision from unnecessary strain or irritation is essential:

Loose Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that doesn’t rub against your incision.
Avoid Heavy Lifting: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that can put pressure on your incision.
Proper Support: Use an abdominal binder if recommended by your doctor. These can provide support and reduce strain on your incision.

4. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions

Your doctor knows your specific situation best. Follow their post-operative care instructions closely, including:

Medications: Take prescribed medications as directed.
Check-ups: Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.

5. Listen to Your Body

Lastly, listen to your body. If something feels wrong or if you have concerns about your incision, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. It’s always better to be cautious and address any potential issues early on.

Proper incision care is a critical part of your post-hysterectomy recovery. By keeping the area clean and dry, monitoring for signs of infection, and following your doctor’s instructions, you can help ensure a smooth and complication-free healing process.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Your health and recovery are our top priorities.

Be Kind to Yourself,

Are there any “MUST HAVES” that I should purchase for my upcoming surgery?

Here are some suggestions from our customers:

“I loved having an ice pack. At first I used a sack of frozen peas and then I ordered the cold/heat packs from the store. LOVED them. I used them multiple ways for my surgery recovery and then I keep them in the freezer for any aches and pains on me or the family. I’ve also been known to put the ice pack inside my shirt if I’m having a hot flash. Desperation!”

“I found I most “needed” two things: my body pillow and a big plastic cup with a lid and a straw. The pillow I purchased a couple weeks before surgery at Walmart, and the hospital gave me the cup.”

“Love the abdominal binder!”

“Support underwear was a requirement. I wanted to get back to work as soon as possible. When I wore them, my “swelly belly” felt supported as I walked around. If you get some, consider sizing up slightly to accommodate your swollen belly. You want the panties snug but not so tight they hurt.”

“My husband put a bell next to my bed for me to call for help! It made me giggle since I could text him on my phone, too!”

“For lounging around the house, I loved my loose fitting night gowns or pjs.”

“Don’t forget your gassy tummy. I found Gas X, lots of water and walking helped me the most.”

“I put a basket near me in bed and moved it next to the sofa as I moved from one spot to the other. In my recovery basket I kept: tissue, lip balm, my hospital papers, phone, pad of paper, pen, a place to write down when I had last taken my pain meds and a few water bottles.”

“The Perfect Pocket Binder at the Hysterectomy Store was indeed – perfect! It came with an ice pack that can be frozen or heated. It felt awesome against my sore tummy!”

“Don’t forget a Tummy pillow! When you cough or sneeze, hold it against your tummy anytime you need extra support or protection. In fact, I kept my tummy pillow with me and it protected me from my fur babies who liked to share the couch with me. The one from the store had a pocket for my cold pack. It was extra relief for my tender belly.”

“The store packaged the binders together to make it easy. They call it the Great Binder Set. It came with the binder, the pocket binder, cold/hot packs and a laundry wash bag. I loved the convenience and used each of the binders while my tummy was so swollen and sore.”

Have you recovered from a hysterectomy? What would you add to the list?

Be kind to yourself,

Do you have furry family?

Your furry family members will definitely be able to sniff that something is up! They will want to be close to you.

Keep your tummy and incision safe by using the Pocket Tummy Pillow. Your pets are still able to snuggle, you are getting relief, all the while protecting the incision.

The Pocket Pillow comes in multiple color options, something for everyone! Each pillow also comes with 2 cool/heat packs.

Be kind to yourself,