Types of gynaecological surgery
There are many different type of surgical procedures used to treat a range of gynaecological problems such as:
- Prolapse
- Incontinence
- Cancer
It is reported that 11% of women will undergo surgery for either prolapse or incontinence at some stage of their life. A third of all surgical repairs need repeat surgery due to worsening symptoms, or failure of the repair.
Physiotherapy management of gynaecological surgery
Women’s Health Physiotherapy is an effective treatment to assist in your preparation for surgery and speed up your recovery post-operatively. This can also help to reduce your risk of further surgery or damage to your repair.
Pre-operative and post-operative treatment can include:
- Pelvic floor exercises
- Education about your condition and surgery
- Developing good bladder and bowel habits
- Post-operative precautions
- Safe exercises to start post-operatively
- Lifestyle advice to minimise your current symptoms
- Progressive exercise plan assisting your return to previous level of activity and pelvic floor safe exercises
Women’s Health Physiotherapy is recommended as the first choice of treatment for prolapse or incontinence
High level research has shown that an individualised program of exercises and lifestyle modification can improve 80% of incontinence and prevent worsening of prolapse symptoms. Continence and prolapse can affect women of any age, however learning some simple techniques and retraining your pelvic floor muscles can reduce these problems and may reduce your need for surgery.
What can you do about it?
If you are undergoing surgery or recovering, then a consultation with a Women’s Health Physiotherapist can help your road to recovery. If required, and with your consent, we also can liaise with your Gynaecologist and GP as you progress.
The more you know about the correct exercises, activities to avoid and strategies to help your healing post-operatively the better your outcomes are likely to be.
Jane Rothe
Senior Womens Health Physiotherapist
