I feel heaviness months after my uterus removal. Why is it?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Since you had your uterus removed 11 months ago and now feel swelling and heaviness at the operated site, I would say that is not something to ignore. By this time, most post-operative recovery is done, so any new swelling, dragging, or heavy feeling should be checked.

It could be something simple like pelvic floor weakness or an incisional hernia at the scar site; sometimes scar tissue adhesions or a collection of fluid can also give that sense of fullness. Rarely, ovarian mass or vault-related issues. Best not to assume.

I would suggest that you do the following investigations:

1. Ultrasound of abdomen and pelvis.

2. If a scar bulge is visible, a local exam by a gynecologist is recommended.

3. Sometimes, a CT (computed tomography) abdomen or pelvis is performed if the ultrasound is inconclusive.

The likely diagnosis could be post-hysterectomy vault swelling. But, the other possible diagnosis includes -

• Incisional hernia.

• Pelvic mass (ovary or cyst).

• Adhesions with bowel pulling.

• Vault prolapse.

The treatment plan includes the following: Right now, do not strain or lift heavy weights until you get evaluated.

• If it is just muscle weakness, pelvic floor strengthening may help.

• If it turns out to be a hernia or vault issue, you may need minor corrective surgery.

• A local supportive binder can temporarily reduce the heaviness.

Meanwhile, you can consider following these preventive measures:

1. Avoid constipation.

2. Do not lift heavy things.

3. Keep weight under control.

4. Continue gentle core or pelvic floor exercises once the doctor clears.

Regarding follow-up, kindly get a pelvic ultrasound and review it with your operating gynecologist or any nearby gynecologist. Then, share the report here as well so I can guide you further.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.