RCOG leaflets to help post-op recovery and return to work

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has published a series of patient leaflets to help women recovering from gynaecological surgery plan their recovery and return to work.

The Return to Fitness: Recovering Well leaflets have been produced in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions and cover a range of post-operative care options and advice for women including, for example, how to look after yourself when you have had a hysterectomy and recovering from a pelvic floor operation.

The leaflets are available online (external website) and, as well as covering issues such as possible side effects from anaesthesia or medication, discuss engaging in routine activities such as travelling or driving, preparing to return to work, and where to go for further advice.

Dr Alison Kirkpatrick, chairwoman of the college's Return to Fitness Project, said: "Before gynaecological surgery, women need information about their recovery so they can feel prepared, organise their families and households, and let their employers know how long they might need to be away from work.

"They get lots of advice from different health professionals as well as from friends and family, which can sometimes be contradictory," she said.

"These leaflets give accurate information that women can take in at their own pace."