Transplant Unit

After transplant surgery, exercise is very important It increases energy, reduces stress, aids sleep, improves digestion and helps your emotional psychological stability.

You will need a daily exercise routine to reduce the muscle weakness that occurs after a long illness .You should gradually increase your levels of exercise. In this way, you will get all the benefits of exercise without causing strain or serious injury to your body.

Most people will be able to gauge the correct level of exercise for them. As a rough guide allow two months following your transplant before any tennis or badminton. Do not lift more than 15Ibs and avoid sit-up exercises for two months. Allow three months before swimming.

Most people return to work approximately six months after their transplant. Obviously this varies according to the work that you do and how quickly you recover. It is better to tell your employer that you will be off work for a realistic period of time and return feeling fit and fully recovered.

It is advisable to wait for at least three months post transplant before driving. You are required by law to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that you have had a transplant. You should also inform your insurance company.

You may be entitled to benefits such as disability allowance. Each persons situation is different so you will need to discuss your requirements with the DHSS.

After your transplant if you are not receiving benefit you will need to pay for your prescriptions. It is advisable to obtain an annual prescription as this is a cheaper option.

You may resume sexual activity as soon as you feel well enough. How quickly you feel ready will depend a lot on your recovery progress. Your sexual functioning may be affected by transplantation. Some people avoid sexual activity because they are afraid of liver rejection, of hurting the liver or of infection. Certain medications can also affect sexual function. If you have any of these fears please feel free to discuss them when you come to clinic or with the transplant co-ordinator or ward staff.

If you are sexually active and do not have a steady sexual partner, you should use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS, syphilis,herpes,hepatitis or gonorrhea. You must also use contraception to avoid unplanned pregnancy.