Recovering from hysterectomy : an exploratory study of how women manage following discharge from hospital

Abstract

Ninety six women, average age 47, who had a hysterectomy between October 1997 and June 1999 were initially interviewed in hospital and followed up for four months after discharge. The findings of the study indicate that adequate support was needed in early recovery period and discharge programs should take into consideration the needs of women with small children and those who have no onsite home support. Strategies used by the women to assist convalescence included support from family and friends but little in the way of health professional or community support. The majority of women returned to normal activities by four months. Communication between women and health professionals was also considered by the women to be important following discharge, especially in terms of information and reassurance about their progress during recovery.

Date of Award	2003
Original language	English