How Long Will My Stomach Be Swollen After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?
Wondering how long your stomach will be swollen after a laparoscopic hysterectomy? Learn what to expect during recovery, how to reduce swelling, and when to seek medical advice.
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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
Undergoing a laparoscopic hysterectomy is a significant step toward better health, but recovery can bring some discomfort, including stomach swelling. If you're wondering how long this swelling will last and how to manage it, you're not alone. Let’s break it down in simple terms to help you feel more at ease.
Understanding Post-Surgery Swelling
After a laparoscopic hysterectomy, swelling in the stomach (also called abdominal bloating or distension) is completely normal. This happens because:
Gas used during surgery: The surgeon inflates your abdomen with carbon dioxide gas to get a better view of your organs. Some of this gas may remain trapped, causing bloating.
Tissue inflammation: Your body’s natural healing response leads to temporary swelling.
Fluid retention: Your body may hold onto extra fluids as part of recovery.
How Long Does Swelling Last?
Most women notice swelling for about 1 to 3 weeks after surgery. However, the exact duration varies depending on:
Your body’s healing speed: Some people recover faster than others.
Activity level: Overexertion can prolong swelling.
Diet and hydration: Eating gas-producing foods or not drinking enough water can worsen bloating.
Here’s a general timeline:
First week: Swelling is usually at its peak.
Second week: Gradual reduction in bloating as gas dissipates and inflammation decreases.
Third week and beyond: Most women see significant improvement, though mild swelling may linger for a few more weeks.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Tips to Reduce Swelling and Speed Up Recovery
Some of the tips to reduce swelling and speed up recovery are:
1. Move Gently (But Don’t Overdo It)
Short, slow walks help release trapped gas and improve circulation.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to flush out excess fluids and reduce bloating.
Avoid carbonated drinks, as they can increase gas.
3. Eat a Bloat-Friendly Diet
Eat small, frequent meals to ease digestion.
Avoid gas-producing foods like beans, cabbage, and fizzy drinks.
Include fibre gradually (whole grains, fruits) to prevent constipation, which can worsen bloating.
4. Use a Heating Pad
A warm compress on your abdomen can soothe discomfort and help with gas pains.
5. Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
Tight clothes can put pressure on your abdomen and increase discomfort.
6. Try Gentle Massage
Lightly massaging your belly in a circular motion may help move trapped gas.
When to Be Concerned?
While swelling is normal, contact your doctor if you notice:
Severe or worsening pain
Redness, warmth, or pus at incision sites (signs of infection)
Fever or chills
Excessive swelling that doesn’t improve after 3-4 weeks
Conclusion
Recovery after a laparoscopic hysterectomy takes time, and swelling is just a temporary part of the process. By following these tips and giving your body the rest it needs, you’ll likely see improvement within a few weeks. If you have concerns or need personalised advice, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. You can easily book a follow-up consultation or post-surgery check-up through Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Veena H
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS DGO
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
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. Ritika Khurana
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)
Pune
Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Dr. Veena H
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS DGO
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
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. Ritika Khurana
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)
Pune
Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune
