How To Get Out Of Bed After Abdominal Hysterectomy?
Learn how to get out of bed safely after an abdominal hysterectomy with step-by-step guidance. Protect your incision, reduce pain, and support faster recovery with these expert tips.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 22nd Sep, 2025
Introduction
Recovering from an abdominal hysterectomy can be challenging, especially in the first few days after surgery. One of the most common struggles patients face is getting in and out of bed comfortably without straining their abdominal muscles. Since this surgery involves removing the uterus through an incision in the abdomen, proper movement techniques are crucial to avoid pain and complications. This guide will help you understand the safest and most effective ways to get out of bed after an abdominal hysterectomy while promoting healing.
Why Is Getting Out of Bed Difficult After a Hysterectomy?
An abdominal hysterectomy is a major surgery that requires time for recovery. The incision in your abdomen makes movements like sitting up, standing, or rolling over painful initially. Your core muscles, which help with stability, are weakened, making it harder to move without discomfort.
Improper movement can:
Increase pain
Strain the incision site
Delay healing
Cause complications like hernia or wound reopening
That’s why learning the right technique is essential.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Out of Bed After Hysterectomy
Step-by-step guide of getting out of bed after hysterectomy are:
1. Prepare Before Moving
Take deep breaths: Relax your body before attempting to move.
Use a pillow: Hold a small pillow against your abdomen for support.
Bend your knees: Keep your knees bent to reduce strain on your stomach.
2. Roll Onto Your Side (Log Roll Technique)
Instead of sitting straight up, roll onto your side first.
Keep your knees bent and use your arms to push yourself gently sideways.
Move slowly to avoid sudden jerks.
3. Push Up with Your Arms
Once on your side, lower your legs off the bed slowly.
Use your elbows and hands to push yourself up while keeping your core relaxed.
Avoid using your abdominal muscles to sit up.
4. Stand Up Carefully
Once seated at the edge of the bed, pause for a few seconds to avoid dizziness.
Push up from the bed using your arms and legs, not your stomach.
Stand up slowly, keeping your back straight.
5. Use Support If Needed
Have a walker, cane, or sturdy furniture nearby for balance.
Ask a family member or caregiver to assist you if needed.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Tips for Easier Movement After Surgery
Some of the tips for easier movement after surgery are:
1. Adjust Your Sleeping Position
Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce abdominal pressure.
If side-sleeping is more comfortable, place a pillow between your legs for support.
2. Avoid Sudden Movements
No twisting, bending, or lifting heavy objects (more than 5-10 lbs) for at least 6 weeks.
Move slowly and mindfully to prevent strain.
3. Use Assistive Devices
A bed rail or grab bar can help you pull yourself up safely.
A recliner chair may be easier to get in and out of than a bed.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Loose, soft fabrics reduce irritation around the incision.
Avoid tight waistbands that press on your abdomen.
5. Stay Hydrated & Eat Well
Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation (a common issue post-surgery).
Eat fibre-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to ease bowel movements.
When to Seek Help?
While some discomfort is normal, contact your doctor if you experience:
Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication
Fever or signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus at the incision site)
Heavy bleeding or unusual discharge
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Conclusion
Recovering from an abdominal hysterectomy takes time and patience. By following these techniques, you can reduce pain and avoid complications while getting in and out of bed. Remember, healing is a gradual process, listen to your body and don’t rush. If you need personalised advice or post-surgery care, consider booking a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr Homeira Nishat
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
34 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bengaluru
Cure Hospital and Clinic, Bengaluru
Dr. Pallab Roy
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
6 Years • MBBS, MS Obstetrics & Gynecology
Kolkata
Dr Pallab Roy, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Humeena Taj C K
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
11 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB OBG
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Debashree Saha
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Sanjan Das
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
15 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Dr Homeira Nishat
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
34 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bengaluru
Cure Hospital and Clinic, Bengaluru
Dr. Pallab Roy
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
6 Years • MBBS, MS Obstetrics & Gynecology
Kolkata
Dr Pallab Roy, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Humeena Taj C K
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
11 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB OBG
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Debashree Saha
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Sanjan Das
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
15 Years • MBBS,MS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
