Sexual Health

There are no physical restrictions on sexual activity.  They may be resumed after discharge from hospital.  Women should avoid the risk of pregnancy by using an appropriate contraceptive method.  Generally, pregnancy following transplantation is not advised.  Please discuss this with your doctor.

During the first six months after surgery, we advise that all patients use condoms during intercourse to avoid the very small risk of the transmission of diseases.  If you are having any problems, please feel free to discuss these with the transplant staff.

Women's Health Issues

Women should remember to continue or improve your previous health maintenance routines.  You should have yearly pelvic examinations and PAP smears.  Women over the age of 40 (particularly if there is a family history of breast cancer) should have a yearly mammogram.  Your GP can help you enrol in a screening programme.

Female Transplant recipients, who ceased menstruation due to their illness before transplantation, may find that their menstrual cycle resumes after their transplant.  Be aware that prednisolone may stop menstrual flow, but ovulation will continue and therefore pregnancy can occur.

If you are considering pregnancy, please discuss this with your transplant doctor or transplant coordinator.  Your doctor will also be able to help you decide which form of contraception is safest and most effective for you.

 Driving

Return to driving is considered six to eight weeks following discharge from hospital.  At this stage a screening assessment is conducted by the Occupational Therapist, addressing concentration, memory, physical endurance and visual acuity

You will be required to notify your insurance company of the change in your medical status following transplant and they may require a doctors letter stating that you are safe to return to driving.

Return to Work

Return to work or vocational goals are usually addressed from 4 to 6 months post transplant.  The Occupational Therapist can assist with establishing goals, assessing your ability to return to work and establishing a graded return to work program.

For those receiving Disability Support Pensions and other social welfare payments your entitlement can be reviews randomly at any stage pre or post transplant by the Department of Social security.  This is undertaken in consultation with the treating staff.  Reviewing your entitlements is based upon your medical and functional status.  Recommendations may include: continuation of current payments, transfer to alternative benefits, referral to a vocationally based rehabilitation program.  The Department of Social Security, Commonwealth Rehabilitation service and Commonwealth Employment Service offer comprehensive assistance with retraining and return to work.

Skin Care

Immunosuppression has the capacity to increase your sensitivity to the sun's rays.  This in turn can cause increased skin damage and subsequent skin cancers.  It is extremely important that you apply an SPF 15 sunscreen lotion whenever you are outside (winter or summer), wear a wide brimmed hat and do not expose your arms and legs unnecessarily to the sun.

You should see a dermatologist at least once a year for a skin cancer screen, however, you must immediately report any suspicious looking skin lesions.

Smoking

Smoking is detrimental to the health of our heart and lungs, particularly in the case of newly transplanted organs.  Smoking therefore is absolutely forbidden.

Dental Care

After an organ transplant you are more likely to have problems with your teeth, including infection and gum overgrowth caused by your immunosuppressive medications.  Good oral hygiene is very important.

In order to minimise dental complications

• Brush your teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush

• Visit your dentist every six months

• Check with your transplant unit before any dental procedures - you may need antibiotic cover

• See your doctor or dentist immediately if you have swollen, tender or red gums