Hysterectomy 101 What You As a Woman Need To Know

Hysterectomy is the name given to the surgical removal of a woman’s uterus. After the applicable treatments have been tried but not helped with the symptoms, the operation is the then recommended as a final solution. Some hysterectomies remove the uterus, other include the cervix, while a radical hysterectomy will see the removal of uterus, cervix, ovaries and fallopian tubes.

By far the most common reason for needing a hysterectomy is menstrual problems in an older woman. There are other reasons why a hysterectomy is recommended – uterine prolapse, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, childbirth complications and cancer. Ask for a full explanation from the doctor of the reasons why you need a hysterectomy.

The two methods of performing the surgery are vaginal and abdominal. Recovery is usually faster and less painful with a vaginal procedure because it doesn’t involve an incision and stitches. The reason for the need for surgery, the general health of the patient and her age are all factors that will be considered to assess a woman’s suitability for this method.

You should be prepared for some pain after the surgery, particularly if you had an abdominal hysterectomy. Usually a catheter is inserted during a hysterectomy and stays in place for the first day or two to help drain urine and pain medication will be given to relief discomfort.

For the first day or two after your operation, you will remain in bed but then will be helped to get up and walk around. The reason for encouraging walking is to lessen the chance of blood clots in the legs. Patients who have had a vaginal procedure stay in hospital for about 3 or 4 days whereas those who have had abdominal surgery stay for 6 to 7 days.

You will continue your recovery at home for 6 to 8 weeks so that your body can heal and you can regain your strength. Arrange someone to help you during your recovery period so you can avoid any heavy lifting, stretching or bending.

There will be certain symptoms you can expect during recovery. You can expect some discharge and bleeding from the vagina after your hysterectomy, but you should see your doctor if it continues. It is quite common to have some menopause symptoms after your surgery, but these usually go away after several days. You may feel like crying, be anxious or confused, have sweats or hot flashes. You may require some HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, if the symptoms continue for any time.

Your libido will not be adversely affected by having a hysterectomy. However, if your ovaries have been removed, you may experience vaginal dryness, which can be helped by using a vaginal lubricant or taking estrogen. The body takes time to heal and so allow about 6 weeks for complete recovery before having sex again.

Many younger women feel a sense of loss after their hysterectomy and may have other emotional issues. Because the majority of women feel so much stronger these few symptoms quickly fade. Your doctor is the person to ask about any concerns you have about symptoms that seem to be staying with you. Always consult your doctor when trying to find out info on hysterectomy surgery, Complete Hysterectomy and Supracervical Hysterectomy.

About 3 weeks after your surgery, start taking short walks to help get your fitness back and prevent putting on weight. It is important to take it easy at first, but you can increase your time and distance every few days. Make sure to keep the exercise manageable and it will help you recover faster and more completely. The recovery period is six to eight weeks for a reason – this time is needed to make a full recovery.