Preparing for Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery: How Physiotherapy Supports Your Recovery
- Erin Purkiss
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
By Steph McKenzie | Female Focus Physiotherapy
If you are preparing for abdominal or pelvic surgery, such as a hysterectomy, hernia repair, or prolapse correction, your recovery journey begins well before you enter the operating theatre. At Female Focus, we provide expert women’s health physiotherapy to guide and support you through every stage of surgical preparation and recovery.
Why Pre-Op Physiotherapy Matters
Physiotherapy before surgery can significantly improve your recovery outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Starting up to six weeks before your procedure, we can help you:
Build Functional Strength
Working with a physiotherapist before surgery can help you:
Strengthen your pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscles to improve your functional baseline
Learn safe movement strategies that reduce intra-abdominal pressure and support your healing
Improve Bowel Habits
Constipation is a common and preventable challenge after surgery. Establishing healthy bowel habits beforehand can make a significant difference:
Pace your fluid intake and aim for approximately two litres of water daily
Respond to the urge to empty your bowels within 20 minutes of feeling it
If you are prone to constipation, speak with a dietitian about fibre intake and other strategies
Use a footstool or perineal support techniques to assist with pelvic floor coordination during bowel movements
Plan for a Smooth Recovery
A bit of planning can ease your transition home after surgery:
Discuss medical-grade compression garments with your surgical team, such as SRC Recovery Shorts or abdominal tubigrip
Understand and respect your personal recovery timeline, which varies depending on your surgery and individual needs
Post-Op Physiotherapy
The early stages of recovery are critical for optimal healing. We provide education, movement guidance, and reassurance tailored to your procedure and body.
Balance Rest and Gentle Activity
Begin short, frequent walks to support circulation, reduce stiffness, and help prevent complications such as blood clots
Use a small pillow or towel to support your abdomen when coughing, sneezing, or getting in and out of bed
Arrange help for household tasks and avoid prolonged standing or heavy lifting
Prioritise rest and respect the time for tissue healing to occur
Stay Connected and Informed
Contact us via telehealth in the early days of recovery if you have questions or concerns
Bring your hospital discharge plan to your post-operative physiotherapy appointment so we can tailor your recovery
We will gradually reintroduce pelvic floor and core strengthening in line with your healing
Scar care, posture, and return to activity will also be addressed as part of your individualised rehabilitation plan
At Female Focus Physiotherapy, we specialise in supporting women before and after abdominal and pelvic surgeries. Our personalised, evidence-based approach empowers you to recover with strength, confidence, and clarity.
If you are preparing for surgery or in the early stages of recovery, we are here to support you with a physiotherapy plan that respects your goals and healing timeline.
Call us today or book online to get started.
0400 373 415
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