Post-operative instructions
- Ensure that you have someone pick you up from the hospital and drive home after your surgery. You should not drive within 24 hours of the operation and should arrange to have a capable adult stay with you on the first night after your operation.
- Do not be concerned if you haven’t seen Dr Zachariah before your discharge. If the details of your surgery are discussed at this stage, you may not be able to recall the information due to the anaesthetic medications.
- Expect a call from our practice nurse, Carolyn in 5-7 days. This is to check up on you as well as to give you a summary of the surgical details and the pathology report. If an early follow up is needed based on the results she will arrange it for you. Otherwise, please ensure that you attend your planned follow up appointment with Dr Zachariah.
What to expect after you go home
- After a general anaesthetic you can expect to feel tired for 24-48 hours. Ensure that you take adequate rest on the day of surgery.
- It is normal to experience period-like cramping. This may last a few days. It is usually relieved by simple pain killers such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, or the usual pain medication that you take for your period.
- It is normal to have a blood-stained discharge or black, gritty discharge for up to four weeks following treatment.
- Resume normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable, usually in 24-48 hours.
Allow your cervix to heal
For the first four weeks after your procedure:
- Avoid using tampons or douching and only use pads until the discharge stops.
- Avoid sexual intercourse for 4 weeks after surgery.
- Avoid using a public pool to reduce the risk of infections. You may use your own bathtub or pool after 2 weeks.
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks.
Be aware of signs of infection
These include:
- Smelly discharge
- Increased vaginal bleeding.
- Fever/chills
- Severe or increasing pain
Report to Dr Zachariah’s rooms if you experience any of the above symptoms.
If you are unable to contact Dr Zachariah’s rooms (out of office hours or at a weekend) call Hollywood Private Hospital Switch Board on 9346 6000 and speak with the Duty Nurse Manager. If unable to contact us and if it is an emergency, please report to the Emergency Department at King Edward Memorial Hospital, Bagot Road, Subiaco.
It is important to return for your post-operative appointment with Dr Zachariah.