When Can I Go Swimming

My Doctor told me 6 weeks post op but interestingly it wasn't because of infection from public pools. I specifically mentioned that to him and he said no it's because the water can make the wounds swell (even when healed over) and put pressure on them. I'm still amazed at all the different advice we get from our different doctors. Makes it confusing when wanting to share info sometimes.

I am 5 weeks post-op and went swimming today for the first time in maybe 2 years. I was amazed that I could only do 10 laps and the pool is only 25m long!! I was puffed out. Will go 2 days a week to start with and 2 walks a week and just build up slowly. Was lovely and warm though, and covered so won't go crispy in the sun!

4 weeks post op was recommended to me also. Some of those public pools are a bit germy, and I didn't want to risk it!!
I found gentle walking was easiest at the start ... even just a stroll around the block to get the old body moving was a good start.

Good luck, and happy swimming (when the time comes).
Carah

I'm a keen swimmer too- in a public pool. My surgeon made me wait 4 weeks post surgery because of possible infection and also just because of the exersion of getting in and out of the pool- stress on the internal areas...

6 weeks post op I was able to start the gym.

I can remember hitting the pool- geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee it was good after that 4 weeks- but stay away from spas and things for a while after that.

Use waterproof dressings for all the surgery sites and you should be ok

I would wait until all wounds are healed. From my experience and with my Mum's knee replacement (also keyhole surgery), always advised to wait because of possible infection.

mandy4848 wrote:

Well Hello There!!!!

Just wondering if any one knows when it will be ok after surgery to go for some laps in a public pool.
I'm 5 days post op now....and pretty keen to hit the pool.

Any advice would be great.

Thanks

i actualy asked my doc this question and i was told at least a week and half as there is high risk of infection in pools

mel

That is what I'm worried about.

No way would I be going near a public pool with the possibility of wound infection.

HAHA MiddleWoman you must of been typing that was i was clicking to change it......

Hi Mandy4848,

With swimming, I would err on the side of caution. Perhaps ask your surgeon?

PS I think you might need to adjust your sleeve date in your profile ;) LOL I see you just did!!

MiddleWoman

Well Hello There!!!!

Just wondering if any one knows when it will be ok after surgery to go for some laps in a public pool.
I'm 5 days post op now....and pretty keen to hit the pool.

Any advice would be great.

Thanks