Ovarian Cancer Post-Surgery: Your Guide to Recovery

Ovarian cancer post-surgery recovery comes with its own set of challenges, victories, and questions. Whether you’ve just undergone surgery or are preparing for an upcoming procedure, knowing what to expect can make a world of difference in your healing journey. 

What to Expect Right After Ovarian Cancer Surgery

When you wake up after ovarian cancer surgery, you’ll likely find yourself in a recovery room, also known as the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), near the operating theater. Those first moments can feel disorienting. 

Your body will be working overtime to process both the anesthesia and the surgical intervention. You’ll typically spend some time in the PACU before your family is allowed to visit, and then, depending on the extent of your surgery, you’ll either go home or be transferred to your hospital room.

Don’t panic if you wake up with several tubes attached to your body. These are normal and temporary. You might have:

• A drip in your arm (intravenous drip) for fluids and pain medication
• A catheter to collect urine
• Wound drains to remove excess fluid from the surgical site
• Possibly an oxygen mask to help with breathing, or in some cases, you may still have an intubation tube (placed through your mouth into your lungs during anesthesia) that will typically be removed shortly after you wake up unless there were complications

During your hospital stay, which typically ranges from 2 to 4 days for most procedures but may extend up to 7 days depending on your specific surgery, your medical team will monitor you closely. They’ll check your vital signs, manage your pain, and watch for any signs of complications.

Pain is a reality after any major surgery. But here’s the good news: it can be managed effectively. Don’t try to tough it out. Communicate openly with your nurses and doctors about your discomfort level so they can adjust your medication accordingly.

Read more: Debulking Surgery for Ovarian Cancer: What It Is and What to Expect

Ovarian Cancer Post-Surgery Recovery Timeline

Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that unfolds over weeks and months. And while everyone’s journey differs, here’s a general timeline of what you might expect:

First Few Days

The immediate postoperative period focuses on basic recovery. You’ll likely be encouraged to:

• Get out of bed and walk short distances (usually within 24 hours)
• Perform breathing exercises to prevent lung complications
• Slowly transition from liquid to solid foods as your digestive system wakes up

Walking might seem impossible right after surgery, but it’s actually one of the best things you can do. Even a slow shuffle down the hospital corridor helps prevent blood clots, improves circulation, and gets your bowels moving again. It will also help release trapped gas if you had a laparoscopic surgery, which is important since this gas pain is often the most uncomfortable sensation you’ll experience initially.

First Few Weeks at Home

When you’re discharged from the hospital, your recovery continues at home. During this time:

• You’ll need help with daily activities (cooking, cleaning, laundry), and many hospitals offer at-home nursing options for those who live alone or do not have full-time caregivers
• Fatigue will be your constant companion, so get rest when your body tells you to
• Your abdomen may still feel tender and swollen
• You might experience emotional ups and downs as you process everything
• Simple tasks might leave you exhausted (and that’s completely normal)

This is the time to go slow and be patient with yourself. Your body is diverting enormous resources toward healing, which explains the fatigue and limited energy. Accept help when it’s offered, and don’t hesitate to ask for support when needed.

Read more: Caring for Someone with Ovarian Cancer: A Practical Guide for Family and Friends

6-12 Weeks Ovarian Cancer Post-Surgery

By now, you’ll likely notice significant improvements:

• Energy levels gradually increase
• Pain and discomfort decrease
• You can handle more daily activities independently
• Your body starts feeling more like your own again

Around the 6-week mark, many women have a follow-up appointment where their surgeon may clear them for more activities, including driving and returning to work (though often on a modified schedule).

Potential Ovarian Cancer Post-Surgery Complications

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to potential complications. Being aware of warning signs means you can seek help promptly if needed.

Common Complications

Some complications occur relatively frequently but are typically manageable:

• Infection: Surgery creates openings for bacteria to enter. Signs include fever, increased pain, redness or discharge at the incision site.
• Constipation: Pain medications, reduced mobility, and the surgery itself can slow down bowel function. Staying hydrated, gentle movement, and stool softeners can help.
• Fatigue: This isn’t really a complication but a guaranteed side effect. Your body needs incredible energy to heal, leaving little for everyday activities.
• Bladder issues: You might experience temporary difficulty emptying your bladder completely or have urinary tract infections.

More Serious Complications

Some less common but more serious complications require immediate medical attention:

• Blood clots: Surgery increases the risk of developing dangerous blood clots in your legs or lungs. Warning signs include unusual swelling, pain, or redness in your legs, or sudden shortness of breath and chest pain.
• Bowel obstruction: If you’ve had part of your bowel removed or manipulated during surgery, scarring can sometimes create blockages. Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and inability to pass gas or stool are warning signs.
• Lymphedema: If lymph nodes were removed during your surgery, you might develop swelling in your legs or genital area due to disrupted lymphatic drainage.
• Bleeding: Internal bleeding might manifest as increasing abdominal pain, dizziness, or blood in your stool or urine.

If you notice ANY warning signs, don’t wait or worry about bothering your ovarian cancer doctor or medical team. Call them immediately. It’s always better to be cautious than to ignore potentially serious symptoms.

When to Call Your Doctor

Some post-surgical symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare team if you experience:

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) orally or 99°F if taken via armpit
• Increasing pain not controlled by prescribed medication
• Redness, swelling, or discharge from your incision
• Foul-smelling incision or discharge from your incision
• Severe abdominal swelling or pain
• Nausea and vomiting that prevents you from keeping down fluids
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Calf pain, redness, or swelling
• Inability to urinate or have a bowel movement

Don’t hesitate to reach out with concerns, even if they seem minor. Early intervention can prevent complications from becoming serious.

Dealing with Surgical Menopause

If your surgery included the removal of both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy), you’ll experience what’s called surgery-induced menopause: an abrupt halt to hormone production rather than the gradual transition of natural menopause.

The suddenness can make symptoms more intense. You might experience:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood changes and irritability
• Vaginal dryness
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased sex drive
• Memory and concentration issues
• Bone density loss (over time)

For younger women, this sudden menopause can be particularly challenging, especially if you had hoped to have children. The emotional impact should not be underestimated.

Management options vary depending on your specific cancer type and other health factors. In general, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is not recommended for ovarian cancer survivors, particularly those with low-grade serous ovarian cancer, as these tumors are typically estrogen-positive. 

However, localized vaginal estrogen for genitourinary symptoms may be considered safe for some patients after chemotherapy completion. Non-hormonal approaches to symptom management are the primary treatment strategy. This is a very individual decision that requires careful discussion with your healthcare team.

Physical Activity and Rehabilitation After Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Movement matters. While rest is crucial in the early days, gradual reintroduction of physical activity supports recovery in multiple ways.

When Can I Start Moving?

You’ll likely be encouraged to leave bed and walk short distances within 24 hours of surgery. This early mobilization helps prevent complications like blood clots and pneumonia.

As you recover, you can gradually increase your activity level. A general guideline includes:

• Weeks 1 to 2: Short, gentle walks around your home
• Weeks 3 to 4: Slightly longer walks, light household activities
• Weeks 6 to 8: Begin more normal daily activities (if approved by your doctor)
• After 8 to 12 weeks: Consider a structured exercise program designed for cancer survivors, incorporating physical therapy and pelvic floor therapy into your routine

What Types of Exercise Are Best?

The best exercise after ovarian cancer surgery is the one you’ll actually do, but some activities are particularly beneficial:

• Walking is accessible, adjustable, and requires no special equipment
• Swimming (once your incision is fully healed, usually around 8 weeks) provides resistance without impact
• Gentle yoga can improve flexibility and help you reconnect with your body
• Pelvic floor exercises support recovery, especially if you’ve had a hysterectomy

​​Many hospitals provide detailed discharge packets with specific exercises designed to aid in your recovery, including proper techniques for getting out of bed, coughing safely, and gentle movements to rebuild strength. Be sure to review these materials and follow the recommended exercise progression from your healthcare team.

Research suggests that women who are more physically active after an ovarian cancer diagnosis may have better survival outcomes, though more studies are needed in this area.

Physical Therapy

Ask your doctor about a referral to a physical therapist specializing in post-surgical or oncology rehabilitation. These specialists can:

• Design a safe, progressive exercise program tailored to your needs
• Teach techniques to manage surgical site discomfort
• Help address any movement limitations resulting from surgery
• Provide guidance on building strength and stamina gradually

Nutrition After Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Your body needs proper fuel to heal. But eating after abdominal surgery can be challenging due to changes in appetite, digestive function, and sometimes taste preferences.

In the early post-operative period, focus on:

• Staying hydrated with water, herbal teas, and clear broths
• Consuming small, frequent meals rather than large ones
• Including protein-rich foods to support healing (eggs, yogurt, lean meats)
• Incorporating easy-to-digest foods initially, then gradually adding more fiber
• Avoiding gas-producing foods that might cause discomfort

If you’re struggling with appetite or nausea, speak with your healthcare team. Anti-nausea medications and dietary modifications can help.

As you move further into recovery, nutrition continues to play an important role in rebuilding strength and supporting your immune system. Consider consulting with a dietitian who specializes in oncology nutrition for personalized guidance.

Emotional Recovery After Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Physical healing is just one part of recovery. The emotional impact of an ovarian cancer diagnosis and surgery deserves equal attention.

You might experience:

• Anxiety about the future or fear of recurrence
• Grief over losses (fertility, body parts, sense of health and safety)
• Identity shifts as you navigate your changing body and life circumstances
• Depression or mood changes (which can also be influenced by hormonal shifts)
• Relationship changes as roles and dynamics adjust during your recovery

These reactions are normal. But if they persist or interfere with your daily functioning, professional support can make a tremendous difference. Resources that might help include:

• Individual counseling with a therapist experienced in cancer or health-related issues
• Support groups (in-person or online) where you can connect with others who truly understand
• Mindfulness practices, including meditation and gentle yoga
• Expressive outlets like journaling, art, or music
• Open conversations with trusted friends and family

Follow-Up Care Schedule

Consistent follow-up is essential after ovarian cancer surgery, but it’s important to understand that most of your follow-up care will be related to your overall cancer treatment plan rather than the surgery itself. A typical schedule might include:

• An initial post-operative visit 2 to 3 weeks after surgery to assess your surgical recovery
• Subsequent follow-up appointments will be determined by your oncology team based on your specific cancer treatment plan

Each visit may include a physical examination, blood tests (including CA-125 ovarian cancer screening), and a discussion of any symptoms or concerns. Imaging studies might be ordered periodically or as needed based on symptoms.

Some medical centers are moving toward “patient-initiated follow-up” systems, where you schedule appointments as needed rather than on a fixed schedule. This approach puts more control in your hands but requires you to be proactive about seeking care when you notice changes or have concerns.

Ovarian Cancer Post-Surgery: Finding Your New Normal

Recovery isn’t just about getting back to who you were before cancer. It’s about integrating your cancer experience into your life and finding your way forward.

This might mean:

• Adjusting expectations about what your body can do and how quickly
• Finding new ways to engage in activities you love
• Developing a different relationship with your body
• Reassessing priorities and perhaps making life changes
• Embracing support from others while reclaiming independence

There’s no right way to navigate this journey. Your path is uniquely yours. But you don’t have to walk it alone.

Organizations like Not These Ovaries are working to fund research for better treatments and support resources for women facing ovarian cancer. While surgery is a critical step, it’s just one part of a much larger journey, one we’re committed to improving through research, education, and community.

Recovery takes time, patience, and sometimes more courage than you knew you had. But with each passing week, most women find increasing strength and glimpses of their new normal emerging. And that new normal can include not just survival but a meaningful, purposeful life beyond cancer.