How long should one abstain from sexual activity after hernia surgery?

Feb 21, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
After hernia surgery, abstinence from sexual activity is required for at least one month, although the exact duration may vary depending on the patient's individual recovery progress. The most important aspects following hernia surgery are getting adequate rest and making proper adjustments to diet and lifestyle habits, avoiding any unhealthy behaviors that could impair recovery. To promote a faster return to full health, patients should refrain from sexual intercourse for a minimum of one month, and must not engage in sexual activity within the first month after surgery.

After hernia surgery, patients should abstain from sexual activity for at least one month; the exact duration depends on individual recovery progress.

The most important aspects following hernia surgery are getting sufficient rest and adjusting diet and lifestyle habits to avoid behaviors that could impair recovery. To promote faster healing, patients should refrain from sexual intercourse for a minimum of one month. Engaging in sexual activity within the first month after surgery may cause stress on incompletely healed surgical wounds, leading to complications such as wound dehiscence, pain, infection, or even recurrence of the hernia. Therefore, to prevent such adverse outcomes, patients are strongly advised to strictly observe abstinence during this period.

The specific duration of abstinence depends primarily on the type of surgical procedure performed and the patient’s individual wound healing progress. For patients who underwent laparoscopic hernia repair and whose wounds are healing well, resuming sexual activity after approximately two months may be possible. However, it is important to keep the duration short and movements gentle to avoid strain. For those who had traditional open hernia surgery, the recommended abstinence period is longer—about three months. It is crucial not to resume sexual activity too early, as this could interfere with proper healing and prolong recovery time.

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