Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus in women. The healing process is tedious and can take over 6 to 8 weeks for complete recovery. During this post-operative care, a compression garment is an effective tool of comfort and assistance.
However, most patients may look for alternatives because of discomfort or various reasons. And a belly band is one common alternative which most of them seek.
However, is the usage of a waist trainer after hysterectomy a safe choice?
Keeping in mind that there are various surgical procedures of doing a hysterectomy, it is not easy to give a verdict. However, the use of waist trainers is not entirely ruled out. Therefore, it all comes down to the type of waist trainer you use to determine whether it is good or bad.
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Table of Content
What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a woman’s uterus. The uterus is the reproductive organ in women that is responsible for carrying a developing fetus during pregnancy. There are several reasons why a woman may need a hysterectomy, including:
- Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms.
- Endometriosis: A condition in which the soft tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and other symptoms.
- Uterine prolapse: A condition in which the uterus slips down into the vaginal canal.
- Cancer of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries.
There are different types of hysterectomy procedures, including:
- Total hysterectomy: Removal of the entire uterus and cervix.
- Partial hysterectomy: Removal of only a part of the uterus.
- Radical hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, and upper part of the vagina.
- Oophorectomy: Removal of one or both ovaries.
The procedure may be done through an open incision in the abdomen or through the vagina. It may also be done laparoscopically or robotically, which involves making several small incisions.
What Should You Consider In A Waist Trainer?
If you plan on using a waist trainer, then here are some key factors you need to examine before wearing one-
- Size: It is recommended to buy a waist trainer that fits your size. This simple step will save you a lot of trouble.
Therefore, avoid using trainers that are either too small or too large. They can hinder your breathing. And they may also disturb the internal organs. - Boning: The waist trainer aims to support and control the extra mass gained during the procedure. However, it doesn’t mean you should employ a garment that restricts your movements.
Instead, choosing something flexible is ideal during post-surgery care. Hence, it would be helpful if you opt for a trainer that has a spiral steel boning.
Waist trainers with this bone structure allow the person to move freely with extreme restrictions. - Material: Apart from the vaginal approach of removing the uterus, all the other procedures include making incisions on the abdomen. Hence, it becomes necessary to wear a breathable waist training.
Make sure you avoid air-tight trainers because they will tamper with the incision and further delay healing.
Benefits
Reduces pain and enhances mobility
According to a 2019 study on the efficiency of abdominal binders after a major abdominal hysterectomy, a binder significantly lessens the pain. And both abdominal binders and best waist trainers have a similar form of compression, which is responsible for providing relief in the midsection of the body.
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The same study further concluded that compression garments improve body mobility.
Provides support and controls swelling
Waist trainers are designed to compress the abdomen, and in doing so, they provide support and posture to the body. Furthermore, they reduce the swelling of the stomach, which is a common symptom after the operation.
Temporary garment
Most patients who undergo a hysterectomy require compression garments only for a brief period. Therefore, waist trainers are ideal because they are temporary garments that produce quick results.
Drawbacks
Despite its advantages, there are various risks of using waist trainers. And for a patient healing from the surgery, waist trainers are prone to affect their bowel functions. Plus, most of its side effects become visible only in the long run. However, it is easy to dodge these drawbacks. All one needs to do is- avoid wearing the trainer throughout the day. And use the right waist trainer.
Conclusion
After a hysterectomy, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations for postoperative care, including any restrictions on physical activity and wearing specific types of clothing or garments. Depending on the type of hysterectomy performed and the individual’s unique circumstances, it may not be appropriate to use a waist trainer during the hysterectomy recovery period.
Waist trainers are designed to provide compression around the waist and abdomen, which can be helpful for shaping and supporting the body, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Some women may experience discomfort or pain when wearing a waist trainer after a hysterectomy, and it could interfere with the healing process.
It’s essential to listen to your body and talk to your doctor before using a waist trainer or any other compression garment following a hysterectomy. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances to help you recover safely and comfortably.
