Hello,
I have found so many helpful threads from mums past, sharing their experiences post-op. They have been a great help, so thank you.
I am now five weeks post-op. I had posterior and anterior vaginal prolapse repair, as well as excision of anal skin tags at the same time. I am 39 and a mum of three. First noticed symptoms of a rectocele after birth of third child, who is now 7. It’s taken this long to finally get everything sorted.
It’s been a long recovery. I couldn’t pee naturally after surgery - I assume because of all the swelling - and had to have a catheter for 18 days, which was a real nuisance. It led to a UTI soon after its removal (now sorted). I also had a superficial infection of the wound site on my perineum. This was very painful but is thankfully all under control now.
Everything is so much better than it was, for sure. I am mobile again, despite still taking things steady and being gentle with all I do: walking only; being careful not to lift, etc.
I did nothing but rest completely for the first two weeks, whilst my husband took time off work. The last few weeks I have been gently active but have not returned to work. I was signed off for six weeks and, although I didn’t expect to need to take it all, I have needed the time. I am expected back next week. My post-op check-up is unfortunately not until the week after my planned return.
Anyway, I wanted to air my concerns with anyone here who has had experience of this op or who is perhaps medically trained. The wound on my perineum, despite looking much better, has still not closed. It is open in two places and not completely fused. This is five weeks post-op.
I also have some hard swelling on my perineum, which is really sore to touch, like a very sensitive bruise - but it is hard swelling under the skin.
I really thought by now that a) the wounds would be closed and b) the swelling would have gone.
Is there any explanation for this or is it to be expected, even at this stage of recovery?
I suppose I am concerned as to whether the swelling might be indicative of a haematoma or an abscess; and how I would know? And is it okay that the wound on my perineum hasn’t fully closed yet? Is it okay to go back to work before it has fully healed? What could jeopardise its healing?
I have been regularly to my GP but they are always keen to know when my post-op check-up is at the hospital, as I suppose they want the final call/advice to come from them…?
Many thanks for any help with my questions.