You’ve got a full calendar, a to-do list a mile long — and now, a hysterectomy on the horizon. Understandably, one of your first thoughts might be: “How long am I actually going to be down for?” Or more specifically: “Will I be stuck in bed for weeks?”
The short answer: probably not for as long as you think. Rest is important, but staying in bed all day isn’t usually necessary — and in many cases, getting up and moving (gently) is an essential step in a healthy recovery post-hysterectomy. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.
Is bedrest required after a hysterectomy?
Not exactly. While you’ll need to rest and avoid strenuous activity, strict bedrest (staying in bed 24/7 for an extended period) isn’t needed for most women after a hysterectomy. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, being too sedentary after surgery can increase the risk of blood clots forming in your legs, called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and slow healing.
In fact, if it is safe to do so, your care team will likely encourage you to get up and move aroundas soon as your anesthesia wears off. When you return home to start your recovery, you will need to continue incorporating gradual, gentle movements throughout the day as part of your overall hysterectomy recovery process.
How much should you be moving?
Once you’re discharged from the hospital and return home, it’s normal to feel tired and sore. While rest is an important part of recovery, too much time lying in bed can work against you. Instead, aim to get up out of bed or off the couch for about eight hours each day.
That doesn’t mean you need to be standing or moving continuously. Break up periods of rest with light activity, like:
- Getting up to use the bathroom
- Doing very light housework, like folding the laundry
- Walking around your house or, if you feel up to it, going on a short stroll outside
- Sitting up in a chair to read or eat
These small movements may not seem like much, but they help support circulation, digestion, lung function, and overall healing. These gentle forms of physical activity are a core part of any successful hysterectomy recovery plan.
What you can expect during recovery
Recovery after a hysterectomy looks different for everyone. Your experience will depend on several factors, like:
- The surgical approach for the hysterectomy (vaginal, laparoscopic, abdominal, or robotic-assisted)
- Whether any other procedures were done at the same time
- Your overall health and physical condition before surgery
- Whether there were any complications during or after the procedure
In general, most people are encouraged to follow these hysterectomy recovery tips:
- Rest often, especially during the first few weeks
- Get up and move around throughout the day
- Avoid heavy lifting (more than 8lbs) or strenuous activities, until cleared by your provider
- Listen to your body and take recovery at your own pace
Your body will go through a number of changes after surgery. Some people feel ready to resume light activities fairly quickly, while others may need more time. There is no right or wrong timeline — the key is to focus on steady, gentle progress and good communication with your care team.
What to avoid while healing from a hysterectomy
While movement is encouraged, there are still activities you should avoid as your body heals.This typically includes:
- Lifting anything heavier than eight pounds or a gallon of milk (unless your provider says it’s okay)
- High-impact activities like running, jumping or intense exercise
- Driving, until you’re cleared by your doctor
- Sexual activity, typically for several weeks until your doctor gives you the go-ahead
Stick to light activities and avoid anything that causes discomfort or strain. Your care team will let you know when you’re ready to resume your full routine.
Know when to reach out
As you continue to recover from your hysterectomy, keep an eye out for these signs that your healing may not be progressing smoothly:
- A fever over 100.4°F
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or passing large clots
- Pain that isn’t improving or is getting worse
- Redness, swelling, or discharge around any incisions
- Trouble urinating or having a bowel movement
Your care team at Northeast Georgia Health System is here to support you — and no question is too small.
Final Thoughts
So, how long will you need to be on bedrest after a hysterectomy? In most cases, not at all. While you’ll definitely need to rest and take things slow, a healthy recovery involves a balance of rest and gentle movement. Aiming to spend time out of bed each day can help prevent complications and get you back to feeling like yourself.
If you’re preparing for or considering a hysterectomy, understanding what to expect ahead of time can help you feel more confident and empowered.
Remember, recovery is different for everyone, so give yourself grace, celebrate the small milestones, and don’t hesitate to ask for help along the way.
Connect with us
If you’re considering a hysterectomy or have questions about what recovery could look like for you, an OB/GYN is here to help. Schedule an appointment to talk through your options, get answers, and feel confident about your next steps today.