Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness

Post-Surgery Recovery in North Somerset

Specialist women’s health physiotherapy following gynaecological and abdominal surgery

Recovery after surgery often involves more than just healing the incision. Following gynaecological or abdominal surgery, it’s common to experience changes in movement, strength, pelvic floor function, pain, or confidence with activity. Support focuses on helping your body recover safely and gradually, while addressing symptoms that may be affecting everyday life.

Types of surgery treated

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus. It may be performed vaginally, abdominally, or laparoscopically, and in some cases may also involve removal of the cervix and/or ovaries.

Because this surgery involves the pelvis and surrounding tissues, it can lead to changes in pelvic floor function, core muscle activation, posture, and overall movement following surgery. Tissue healing and scar formation may also influence how these areas move and function.

Prolapse repair surgery

Prolapse repair surgery involves procedures to improve support of the pelvic organs. These operations work directly on pelvic tissues and supporting structures.

Following surgery, changes related to healing and tissue repair can influence pelvic floor control, pressure management, and confidence with movement and activity.

Caesarean section

A caesarean section is major abdominal surgery performed to deliver a baby. It involves incisions through the abdominal wall and uterus.

As healing takes place, changes related to the surgical incision and underlying tissues can affect core muscle function, posture, and movement patterns. Scar tissue formed during healing may contribute to sensations of tightness or restriction if movement is limited.

Other gynaecological or abdominal surgery

This may include surgery such as endometriosis excision, laparoscopy or exploratory surgery, ovarian or pelvic surgery, or abdominal or bowel surgery. These procedures can involve incisions through the abdominal wall or pelvis and disruption to deeper tissues.

As healing occurs, changes related to scar tissue formation, muscle activation, and movement patterns may affect comfort, strength, posture, and confidence with activity.

How physiotherapy supports recovery

Physiotherapy following surgery focuses on supporting the body as it heals, while addressing the physical changes that can occur as a result of surgery and the healing process itself. The aim is to help restore movement, strength, and confidence in a safe and progressive way.

Physiotherapy support may include:

  • Assessment of movement, posture, and functional strength

  • Scar assessment and treatment to address restriction or sensitivity

  • Hands-on treatment to reduce pain, stiffness, or tissue tightness

  • Pelvic floor assessment and rehabilitation where relevant

  • Progressive exercise to rebuild core strength and overall movement confidence

  • Support returning to daily activities, exercise, or work

  • Advice around pacing, fatigue management, and recovery expectations

Support is always individualised, taking into account the type of surgery, stage of recovery, current symptoms, and personal goals.

Next steps

Physiotherapy support can be helpful for all women following gynaecological or abdominal surgery, whether recovery feels straightforward or more complex. Support focuses on managing healing, helping scar tissue recover well, rebuilding strength, and supporting pelvic floor, bladder, and bowel function as the body adapts after surgery.

Many women choose to begin physiotherapy around six weeks after surgery as a proactive way to support recovery and reduce the risk of longer-term issues. Others seek support months or even years later if symptoms such as pelvic floor changes, bladder or bowel issues, pain, or discomfort develop over time. It is never too late to address post-surgical changes.

Appointments take place at the clinic in Winscombe, supporting women across North Somerset and the surrounding Somerset area.

If you’re unsure whether this is the right appointment for you, you’re welcome to get in touch to discuss your options..

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Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness Studio

Corner House

Woodborough Road

Winscombe

BS25 1AQ

07862620259

Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness provides Physiotherapy, Pilates, menopause support, and remedial hypnosis / CONTROL method for women across Winscombe, Weston-super-Mare, Cheddar, Axbridge, and North Somerset.

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