After giving birth, you might need pelvic reconstructive surgery to get your body back to the way that it was. This can be a hard process with a long recovery time. However, here are some tips for recovering from pelvic reconstructive surgery that can help make the process go more smoothly.

1. Compression Socks and Blood Thinners

Ask your doctor about the possibility of you developing deep vein thrombosis as a result of the surgery. If he or she says that there is a chance, you will need to make sure that you wear compression socks and take any blood thinners that he or she prescribes. This will allow you to keep your blood moving as it should. You should also roll your ankles regularly while you are resting in bed and fold and unfold your legs several times every hour. Avoid crossing your legs.

2. Start Moving

You are going to feel better and be more effective if you try to start moving around as soon as possible. Do not do a lot of intense exercise but instead do a lot of walking. Walking keeps your blood flowing and your mood high without putting a lot of stress on the part of your body that just underwent surgery. A few weeks after your surgery, start doing kegels and other pelvic floor exercises that will help strengthen the part of your body that was just reconstructed.

3. Shower

When you still have stitches in your vagina, make sure that you shower, rather than bathe. This will help you avoid having them accidentally dissolve too soon or any other problems. After the stitches are gone, you can either shower or bathe.

4. Don't Push Vaginal Intercourse

You will need between one and two months before you should go back to having sex. This can be frustrating for both you and your partner. When your stitches are out and your doctor gives you the go-ahead, take things slowly and have lube on hand in case things feel dry. It might be uncomfortable so try to ease into it. This will allow you to avoid feeling disappointed or as though you are letting down your partner. Pelvic reconstructive surgery is major surgery and your recovery period is going to take longer than you would perhaps prefer.

For more information, talk to a professional like Western Branch Center for Women that specializes in pelvic reconstructive surgery. They might have other tips for increasing your overall rate of recovery.