Have you ever been told to “just get on with it” after surgery?

In this episode, I share a real patient story that highlights a much bigger issue in women’s health: the lack of support, follow-up, and education after major gynaecological surgery.

This patient had a full abdominal hysterectomy and was placed into surgical menopause—yet received little to no guidance on recovery, long-term health, or how to manage her symptoms.

And sadly, this isn’t unusual.

Across my career as a women’s health physiotherapist, I’ve seen the same pattern time and time again:
Women undergoing major surgery, then being left to manage recovery alone.

Why this is a problem

Unlike orthopaedic surgery (such as hip or knee replacements), where patients receive:

• Structured rehabilitation
• Routine physiotherapy
• Clear recovery milestones
• Ongoing follow-up

Women’s health surgery often comes with:

• Minimal or no follow-up
• No routine physiotherapy
• Little education on recovery
• No clear guidance on what’s normal

This includes:

• Hysterectomy
• C-section recovery
• Other gynaecological procedures

The long-term impact

Recovery isn’t just about the first few weeks.

For many women, especially those entering surgical menopause, there are longer-term considerations, including:

• Pelvic health issues (incontinence, prolapse)
• Pain and function
• Bone health
• Heart health
• Brain health
• Managing menopause symptoms

Without support, many women are left feeling:

• Confused
• Frustrated
• Unsupported
• Unsure where to turn

Why this matters

Every woman will experience menopause, and many will undergo some form of gynaecological treatment or surgery.

Yet the level of support does not match the scale of the need.

While the NHS provides incredible care under pressure, there remains a significant gap in:

• Education
• Follow-up
• Long-term support

What you can do

If you’ve had surgery or are struggling with menopause symptoms:

• Don’t be fobbed off
• Ask questions
• Write things down before appointments
• Ask for referrals to specialists
• Seek support if you’re unsure

You deserve proper guidance and support.

💬 Need support?

If you feel like you’ve been left to get on with it, you don’t have to manage this alone.

You can reach out to me for support, either:

• In person
• Online

Or I can help guide you to the right support locally.

🔗 Connect with me

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveandshinewomenswellness/

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thriveandshinewomenswellness

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www.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.uk

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Supporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools.

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