If you are set to have hip replacement surgery, you probably have a number of different questions that you want to ask your surgeon. How long will the operation take? What will rehabilitation look like? What can you do to help prepare for your surgery? These are some of the more common questions we field from patients, but we know they may also have some topics on their mind that they may be embarrassed to discuss during the pre-op process.
Talking about subjects like intimacy, bowel movements or bathing after hip replacement surgery may not be the easiest subjects to talk about, but these are areas you’ll want to cover in order to make the best recovery. To help get the conversation rolling and provide some general advice, we decided to pen a blog on how you can navigate the bathroom and bedroom after hip replacement surgery.
Navigating The Bathroom After Hip Replacement
Let’s start with the bathroom. Taking care of your business in the bathroom will be a little more difficult as you recover from hip replacement surgery, but it’s not something you’re going to be able to avoid, so it’s best to try to make the process as comfortable as possible. Here are some ways to navigate certain aspects of the bathroom after hip replacement:
- Showering – Follow your doctor’s instructions in regards to showering. They may recommend only a sponge bath for a few days to prevent problems with the incision site. Patients also oftentimes find it helpful to install grab bars and railings, or to shower in a walk-in shower as opposed to a tub that they have to step into in order to access. You may also need help drying your legs and feet as you recover, as bending to hit these areas may be restricted.
- Bowel Movements – Recognize that constipation is pretty common after surgery for a few different reasons. The effects of anesthesia, new medications and limited activity can all contribute to constipation, which can make life a little more uncomfortable in the bathroom. Eat a diet full of fruits, vegetables and healthy fiber, and be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water to make bowel movements easier.
- Wiping – Wiping after going to the bathroom will also be a little more difficult, but you’ll get the hang of it rather quickly. Again, you can ask your surgeon for specific tips, but oftentimes it’s helpful to lean on your non-operated hip for support and to rest that same arm on a counter for support if possible. Use your free hand on the opposite side to wipe without twisting your upper body. Grab bars or assistive devices like a seat raiser can also help with the process
Navigating The Bedroom After Hip Replacement
Next, let’s take a look at the bedroom. When it comes to intimacy and sleeping after hip surgery, you’ll want to keep these tips in mind:
- Intimacy – Hip replacement tends to lead to less discomfort and more mobility, which can make intimacy with your partner more enjoyable. You should be able to be intimate with your partner after hip surgery, but not right away. Your doctor will give you a specific timeline, but oftentimes you’ll want at least 2-3 weeks of healing before resuming relations. Any movement restrictions given for normal physical activities will remain in place during intimacy, so make sure you’re not bending or rotating your legs outside of your restrictions.
- Sleeping – You’ll also want to be mindful of your body positioning when sleeping after a hip replacement procedure. You’ll want to avoid sleeping on your surgically-addressed hip or with your legs crossed. Instead, sleep on your side that was not operated on, or sleep on your back. Oftentimes it’s helpful to have a small pillow between your legs for extra support and to help keep your spine and hips in alignment. Firm mattresses also tend to be better than extra cushiony options that can put extra strain on pressure points, including your hips.
If you keep these tips in mind and are willing to have a discussion with your hip surgeon prior to your operation, we’re confident that you’ll ace your rehab. For more information, or for answers to any questions you have about your hip pain or surgery, reach out to Dr. Botero and his team today at (865) 558-4444.
