When Can I Lay On My Side After A Hysterectomy?
Discover when it’s safe to lay on your side after a hysterectomy. Learn how proper sleeping positions support recovery, reduce discomfort, and promote healing.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Siri Nallapu MBBS
Last updated on 23rd Sep, 2025
Introduction
Recovering from a hysterectomy can be a challenging time, and one of the common concerns patients have is about their sleeping position. Many women wonder, "When can I lie on my side after a hysterectomy?" The answer depends on the type of hysterectomy you had, your healing progress, and your comfort level. In this article, we’ll discuss when it’s safe to sleep on your side, tips for comfortable rest, and general recovery guidelines.
Understanding Hysterectomy Recovery
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, and sometimes other reproductive organs like the ovaries or cervix. Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery:
Abdominal hysterectomy (through an incision in the abdomen): 6 to 8 weeks
Vaginal hysterectomy (through the vagina): 4 to 6 weeks
Laparoscopic or robotic hysterectomy (minimally invasive): 2 to 4 weeks
Your body needs time to heal internally, even if external incisions look fine.
When Can You Sleep on Your Side After Hysterectomy?
Most doctors recommend sleeping on your back immediately after surgery to avoid putting pressure on the incision site. However, you may be able to lie on your side after the first few days or weeks, depending on your comfort and healing progress.
1. First Few Days Post-Surgery
Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce strain.
Avoid twisting or turning abruptly to prevent pain or pulling stitches.
2. After 1-2 Weeks
If you feel comfortable, you can try lying on your side with a pillow between your knees for support.
Listen to your body, if it causes pain, return to sleeping on your back.
3. After 4-6 Weeks
Most women can comfortably sleep on their side by this time.
If you had an abdominal hysterectomy, you may need to wait longer (6-8 weeks).
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Tips for Comfortable Sleep After Hysterectomy
Some of the tips for comfortable sleep after hysterectomy are:
1. Use Pillows for Support: Place a pillow under your abdomen or between your legs to ease pressure.
2. Recline Slightly: Sleeping in a semi-upright position (like in a recliner) can reduce discomfort.
3. Avoid Sudden Movements: Roll gently instead of twisting to switch positions.
4. Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothes can irritate incisions.
5. Stay Hydrated, but Limit Fluids Before Bed: This reduces nighttime bathroom trips.
General Recovery Tips
Some of the general recovery tips are:
Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: Take prescribed medications and avoid heavy lifting.
Walk Gently: Short walks help prevent blood clots and aid healing.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fibre-rich foods to prevent constipation.
Avoid Strenuous Activities: No heavy exercise, bending, or driving until cleared by your doctor.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Severe pain or swelling
Fever or signs of infection
Heavy bleeding
Difficulty urinating
Conclusion
Recovery after a hysterectomy takes time, and sleeping comfortably is an important part of healing. While you may be able to lie on your side after a few weeks, always prioritise your comfort and follow your doctor’s advice. If you have concerns about your recovery or need personalised guidance, you can book a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice.
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Nilanjana Das
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
5 Years • MS (O&G)
Guwahati
Apollo Personalized Health Check Centre, Guwahati
Dr Shanta Bhaskaran
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
35 Years • MBBS MD DGO
Chennai
Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Rupali Goyal
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS, DNB (OBGYN), Dip (Usg)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Farhana J
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS,DGO,DNB(OG)
Tiruchirappalli
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Old Palpannai, Tiruchirappalli
Dr. Karuna Ratwani
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
11 Years • MBBS, MS( Obstetrics & Gynaecology), F.MAS, FICRS Advanced Diploma in Minimal Access surgery Fellow of International College of Robotic Surgeons Diploma in Reproductive Medicine, Kiel-Germany Masters in Cosmetic Gynaecology , Greifswald-Germany Masterclass in Obstetrics & Gynaecology Ultrasound ( ISUOG, UK)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Dr. Nilanjana Das
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
5 Years • MS (O&G)
Guwahati
Apollo Personalized Health Check Centre, Guwahati
Dr Shanta Bhaskaran
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
35 Years • MBBS MD DGO
Chennai
Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Rupali Goyal
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS, DNB (OBGYN), Dip (Usg)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Farhana J
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS,DGO,DNB(OG)
Tiruchirappalli
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Old Palpannai, Tiruchirappalli
Dr. Karuna Ratwani
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
11 Years • MBBS, MS( Obstetrics & Gynaecology), F.MAS, FICRS Advanced Diploma in Minimal Access surgery Fellow of International College of Robotic Surgeons Diploma in Reproductive Medicine, Kiel-Germany Masters in Cosmetic Gynaecology , Greifswald-Germany Masterclass in Obstetrics & Gynaecology Ultrasound ( ISUOG, UK)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
