Convalescence advice following gynaecological surgery

Abstract

This was a survey, undertaken in the UK, which was sent to all obstetricians and gynaecologists. The aim was to establish the current advice given for activities during convalescence after commonly performed benign gynaecological surgery. Questionnaires were sent to all the obstetricians and gynaecologists working in 235 NHS hospitals in the UK. The total response rate was 30.51%. There is substantial variability in the advice for activities during convalescence following gynaecological surgery. This has enormous implications – mainly financial. The economic impact of absence from work is enormous. One extra day of sick leave given to patients has a direct cost of approximately £34 million annually. Our survey highlights the need for structured and evidence-based recommendations for convalescence activities following benign gynaecological surgery.

Keywords::

• Convalescence
• driving
• gynaecological surgery
• physical activities
• return to work
• sexual intercourse

Declaration of interest: Financial grant by Research and Development, Croydon University Hospital NHS Trust. The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.