Risks Of Running After Hysterectomy
Understand the potential risks and considerations of running after a hysterectomy. Learn about safe return-to-exercise guidelines, common complications to watch for, and how to gradually resume physical activity for optimal recovery.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 7th Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you’ve recently had a hysterectomy, you might be eager to get back to your normal routine, including running or other physical activities. While exercise is great for recovery, it’s important to understand the potential risks and take precautions to avoid complications. This article will guide you through the safe return to running after a hysterectomy.
Understanding Hysterectomy and Recovery
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, and sometimes the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, depending on the reason for surgery. Recovery time varies based on the type of hysterectomy:
Abdominal hysterectomy (longest recovery, 68 weeks)
Vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy (shorter recovery, 46 weeks)
Your body needs time to heal, and rushing back into intense activities like running too soon can lead to complications.
Potential Risks of Running Too Soon After Hysterectomy
Running is a high impact exercise that puts stress on your pelvic muscles, abdomen, and internal healing tissues. Starting too early can cause:
1. Increased Pain and Discomfort
Running may strain the surgical area, leading to pain or delayed healing.
You might experience pelvic pressure or abdominal soreness.
2. Risk of Bleeding or Infection
Strenuous activity can disrupt healing tissues, leading to bleeding.
Excessive movement may increase the risk of infection.
3. Pelvic Floor Weakness or Prolapse
The pelvic floor muscles support organs like the bladder and bowel.
Running too soon can weaken these muscles, increasing the risk of prolapse (where organs drop into the vaginal canal).
4. Adhesion Formation
Scar tissue (adhesions) can form inside the abdomen if healing is disrupted.
This may lead to chronic pain or digestive issues.
5. Fatigue and Slow Recovery
Your body needs energy to heal, and overexertion can slow down recovery.
When Can You Start Running Again?
Every woman’s recovery is different, so always follow your doctor’s advice. Generally:
Walking is encouraged early in recovery (within a few days).
Light jogging may be possible after 68 weeks, depending on surgery type.
Full running may take 36 months for some women.
Signs You’re Not Ready to Run Yet
Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or pelvis
Vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge
Feeling excessively tired after light activity
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Tips for Safe Running After Hysterectomy
If your doctor clears you for running, follow these precautions:
1. Start Slow and Gradual
Begin with walking, then walk-jog intervals, before full running.
Listen to your body—stop if you feel pain or fatigue.
2. Strengthen Your Core and Pelvic Floor
Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) help prevent prolapse.
Gentle core strengthening (after doctor’s approval) supports healing.
3. Wear Supportive Gear
A good sports bra (if ovaries were removed, hormonal changes may affect breast tenderness).
Compression shorts may provide pelvic support.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Proper nutrition helps tissue repair.
Hydration prevents bladder irritation.
5. Avoid HighImpact Runs Initially
Choose soft surfaces (grass, treadmill) over concrete.
Short, slow runs are better than long, intense ones at first.
6. Watch for Warning Signs
Stop running and consult your doctor if you experience:
Increased pain or bleeding
Swelling in the legs (possible blood clot risk)
Unusual fatigue or dizziness
Alternative Exercises While Recovering
If running is too strenuous, try these low impact options:
Walking (gradually increase pace)
Swimming (after incision heals)
Cycling (stationary bike first)
Yoga or Pilates (gentle stretches only, avoid intense core work initially)
When to Seek Medical Help?
Contact your doctor if you notice:
Heavy bleeding or foul-smelling discharge
Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
Fever or signs of infection
Difficulty urinating or bowel issues
Final Thoughts
Running after a hysterectomy is possible, but patience is key. Rushing back can lead to complications, so follow your doctor’s advice and ease into activity. Strengthening your pelvic floor, eating well, and listening to your body will help you return to running safely. If you’re unsure about your recovery progress, consult a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for personalized guidance. You can book an online consultation or schedule a followup test to ensure a smooth recovery. Stay active, but most importantly, let your body heal properly—your long-term health is worth the wait!
Consult Top Gynecologist
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, DGO
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Jasmine Sarah Abraham
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
14 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), MRCOG (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) (Fellowship in Minimal Invasive Surgery (Gynaecology)
Bengaluru
Unicorn Multi-Speciality Clinic, Bengaluru
Dr Homeira Nishat
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
34 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bengaluru
Cure Hospital and Clinic, Bengaluru
Consult Top Gynecologist
Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, DGO
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Jasmine Sarah Abraham
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
14 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), MRCOG (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) (Fellowship in Minimal Invasive Surgery (Gynaecology)
Bengaluru
Unicorn Multi-Speciality Clinic, Bengaluru
Dr Homeira Nishat
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
34 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bengaluru
Cure Hospital and Clinic, Bengaluru
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