The First Shower After Surgery
How to Shower Safely With JP Drains After a Mastectomy
Showering after a mastectomy can feel intimidating — especially with Jackson-Pratt (JP) drains. Between soreness, limited movement, and the fear of pulling a drain, it’s completely normal to feel nervous at first.
This guide offers gentle, practical tips to help you shower more comfortably while your drains are in place. This is not medical advice; always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.
Before You Shower
- Confirm with your surgeon that you’re cleared to shower.
- Use a non-slip mat in the tub or shower.
- Bring clean clothes and towels into the bathroom before you begin.
- If possible, use a handheld shower head to control water flow.
Secure Your Drains First
Supporting your drain bulbs is the most important part of showering safely. Many women use drain belts, lanyards, post-op camisoles, or specially designed recovery tools such as:
These tools help keep bulbs supported so they don’t tug on your skin and allow you to shower with more independence and peace of mind.
Why Women Love Shower Shirts & Drain Pouches
- Prevent drains from swinging or pulling.
- Reduce anxiety around moving in the shower.
- Feel more comfortable when you’re not ready to look at your chest.
- Make it easier to shower without needing help.
How to Shower Gently
- Use lukewarm water — hot water can increase swelling or dizziness.
- Let water run over your shoulders rather than spraying incision areas directly.
- Keep showers short; fatigue is common while healing.
- Use mild, fragrance-free soap if your skin is sensitive.
After the Shower
- Pat dry — never rub around incision or drain sites.
- Check that your drains are still supported and tubing isn’t pulling.
- Change any dressings as directed by your surgeon.
- Put on clean, soft, front-closing clothing.
When to Call Your Surgeon
- Fever or chills.
- Increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pain around drain sites.
- Cloudy, foul-smelling, or pus-like drainage.
- The drain bulb won’t stay compressed or the tubing comes out.
Connect without pressure.
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