Questions after laparotomy

[pro728]

I had a laparotomy done for a large complex cyst 7 days ago. Rest everything is normal according to the doc. I am to go for follow up after a months. The doc asked me to drink a lot of water, walk and take rest. Nothing else. No medicines other than for gas and a tonic for genl helath. I have slight colic pain and have problems shifting in the bed. A tight feeling is there in the abdomen as I walk (with a stoop) which is normal acc to doc.

But I still have some doubts. Please let me know whatever you are aware of.

1. How often I take head bath? I have very long hair and I was afraid to wash it in this rainy season in case it did not dry out. I did not want to catch a cold/cough.

2. For how long should I walk?

3. Can I eat meat cooked at home? I am asked to keep away from cold foods and restuarant foods.

4. When can I have sex/masturbate..etc? LOL. I am not horny but sure want to know.

5. Will I have a painful mensus this time?

6. Some people in the community say that they go to work a week after surgery. When can I start going out?


Any other info is welcome. Thanks.

[pro728]

Thanks a lot for your reply. I was just wondering all these things.

[marie2313]

Well I have had 3 laparotomies and there is no real set time for walking, you will know when you have had enough. ( remember even if you feel ok walking take it easy because you will feel it later you will be sore.) It takes time to heal. I was off of work for 4-6 weeks. I was not allowed to do much no lifting, nothing strenuous. I was told to watch some of the foods I ate example restuarant foods only because they might upset my stomach. Honestly  I would suggest not to have sex for a couple of weeks. You don't want to do anything that will cause adhesions and scar tissue to develop. Just take it easy. As far as your mensus it was not really anymore painful. Laparatomies are a big surgery and your stomach needs time to heal. Good Luck