DISCHARGE AND AFTERCARE

Discharge Instructions for Oophorectomy

December 11, 2017

Discharge Instructions for Oophorectomy

You had a procedure called oophorectomy. This is the surgical removal of one or more ovaries. These walnut-sized organs in your pelvic area make and release the eggs. The eggs can grow to become a baby when combined with a man’s sperm. Ovaries also make hormones that regulate your period (menstrual cycle). Your periods may stop if both ovaries were removed if you were still menstruating before the surgery. You may have other symptoms of menopause as well, such as hot flashes. A hysterectomy to remove the uterus is often done with oophorectomy.

 Activity

  • Rest when you are tired.

  • Take your medicine exactly as instructed by your doctor.

  • Continue the coughing and deep breathing exercises that you learned in the hospital.

  • Listen to your body. If an activity causes pain, stop.

  • Limit your activity for 4 to 6 weeks.

  • Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds.

  • Don't do strenuous activities, such as mowing the lawn, vacuuming, or playing sports.

  • Limit your activity to regular short walks. Gradually increase your pace and distance as you feel able.

  • Don’t drive for until you are comfortable without taking narcotics. This may take up to 2 weeks. You may ride in a car for short trips.

Other home care

  • Don’t put anything in your vagina until your doctor says it’s OK.

    • Don’t douche.

    • Don’t use tampons.

    • Don’t have sex.

  • Shower as needed.

    • Wash your incision gently with mild soap and warm water.

    • Keep your incision clean and dry.

  • Check your temperature each day for 1 week after your surgery.

  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.

  • Avoid constipation.

    • Use laxatives, stool softeners, or enemas as directed by your doctor.

    • Eat more high fiber foods.

    • Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day, unless directed otherwise.

Follow-up care

Make a follow-up appointment, or as directed.

 

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:

  • Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) or chills

  • Bright red bleeding or foul smelling discharge from your vagina

  • Trouble urinating, or burning during urination

  • Severe abdominal pain or bloating

  • Redness, swelling, or draining at your incision site

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Increasing pain with or without activity

Updated:  

December 11, 2017

Sources:  

Sisk, J. The Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Healthm 2013, 1923-27

Reviewed By:  

Freeborn, Donna, PhD, CNM, FNP,Sacks, Daniel, MD, FACOG