Driving after gynaecological surgery and Caesarean-section delivery

Author(s): POGP - Pages: 81 - 82

Abstract

This statement is based on a synthesis of the best available current evidence. It will be subject to periodic review as the evidence base evolves. It should be noted that the statement offers guidance, and should not be regarded as prescriptive; such general advice will always require to be modified in line with the needs of any individual patient and the clinician’s experience. This statement aims to identify the factors that should be considered when advising patients about a safe return to driving following gynaecological surgery or Caesarean-section delivery. Much research has explored advice given to patients about their return to driving after surgery. For gynaecological or obstetric procedures in specific, the evidence is limited and inconclusive, and guidelines from various sources appear to be in conflict. Clayton & Verow (2007) concluded from one research study that both patients and health professionals seem uncertain about which criteria determine “fitness to drive”.