Week 1
Swelling peaks around day two or three and can look alarming; it is normal. Rest with your legs slightly apart, use cool compresses for ten minutes at a time, and rinse with water after using the toilet rather than wiping. Spotting is common. Pain is usually soreness controlled by the medication you were given. If you have external stitches, keep the area clean and dry as instructed; if your technique used no external sutures, hygiene is the whole job.
Week 2
Swelling drops noticeably. Sitting for long periods becomes comfortable; desk work and walking are fine. Wear loose cotton underwear and avoid trousers that press on the area. Bruising, if any, fades.
Weeks 3–4
Most daily activity returns. Light exercise such as walking and gentle gym work is usually fine; avoid cycling, horse riding and anything that rubs. The tissue still looks swollen at the edges.
Weeks 5–6
Healing is confirmed at a check-up or by photograph. Intercourse, swimming and tight clothing are usually allowed from six weeks. The final shape continues to settle for two to three months.
When to call
Bleeding that soaks a pad within an hour, fever, spreading redness or warmth, pus, or pain that increases after day three rather than easing. Any of these deserve a same-day message or call to your surgeon.
Recovering in another country
If you travelled for surgery, arrange how follow-up will work before you leave: who you message, how quickly they reply, and who to see locally if needed. Ask for your operative note in English.