What is a hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy is the process that surgically removes the uterus. It prevents menstruation and pregnancy. The ovaries and/or fallopian tubes may be removed as well, depending on the surgery’s purpose.
- The cervix is then removed.
- Removing the uterus and cervix.
- A total hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix, salpingo, and ovaries (Sophia). Removing your ovaries usually causes menopause.
- During a radical hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, upper vaginal tissue, and lymph nodes are removed. Hysterectomy for uterine or cervical cancer.
Why is hysterectomy performed?
- Uncontrollable vaginal bleeding.
- Several endometrioses (uterine tissue that grows outside the uterus).
- Leiomyomas or uterine fibroids that have grown in size, are painful or bleed.
- Uncontrollable pelvic pain caused by the uterus.
- Uterine prolapse (uterus “dropping” into vaginal canal due to weak support muscles) can cause urinary incontinence or bowel problems.
- Cervical or uterine cancer or cancer-causing abnormalities.
Are there alternatives to hysterectomy?
HYSTERESIS: IS IT ALWAYS NECESSARY?
Yes. Uterine issues can be treated with a hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is sometimes necessary. Ask your doctor about your specific treatment options.
What happens before, during, and after a hysterectomy?
Before the procedure
Your questions will be answered.
Also:
- Blood and urine tests
- Trim abdominal and pelvic hair.
- An IV line is inserted into an arm vein to deliver medications and fluids.
During the procedure
An anesthesiologist will either:
- General anesthesia, where you are asleep during the procedure;
- The pain is “blocked” by medications placed near the nerves in your lower back while you are awake.
An abdominal or vaginal incision removes the uterus.
Some doctors perform vaginal hysterectomy surgery using a laparoscope to view the uterus.
A full hysterectomy can also be performed using microscopic incisions (total or supracervical laparoscopic hysterectomy).
In more difficult cases, robotic devices implanted through the laparoscope may be used to complete the procedure (robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy).
How long does the procedure last?
The procedure lasts for 1-3 hours. The hospital recovery time varies by procedure.
On the day of discharge
On discharge day, an adult must drive you home.
What are the complications of hysterectomy?
Some surgeries carry an increased risk of things going wrong. Infection, blood clots, surgery, obstruction of the intestinal system, or urinary tract injury are all possible complications.
What should I know about recovering at home after a hysterectomy?
- Keep up the regular diet.
- Bathe. Soak the cut (the stitches do not have to be removed, as they will dissolve in about six weeks). No dressing is needed. Skin clips (staples) must be removed.
- Apply lotions and creams to the wound area.
- Gradually increase activity as tolerated. 4–6 weeks for vaginal or laparoscopic surgery.
- After two weeks of no narcotic pain medication, you can drive.
- Three weeks post-surgery, you can fly.
- For four weeks, avoid heavy lifting.
- For 4 weeks, no vaginal products.
- Intercourse is permitted six weeks post-surgery.
- You can swim in a pool two weeks post-surgery, but slowly.
- Rest for 4–6 weeks.
- Your doctor can advise you. 3–6 weeks depending on technique.
- A year after hysterectomy, some women still menstruate. Caused by endometrial lining. Hysterectomy
How will I feel after a hysterectomy?
Physically
After hysterectomy no period bloated and menstrual-like. Ongoing mild vaginal bleeding or a dark brown discharge is normal.
Redness, bruising, and swelling subside in 4–6 weeks. Inflammation is normal. The incision and leg can be numb. Two months is normal.
Hormones shouldn’t affect the ovaries. After ovaries and uterus removal, hot flashes may occur. Menopause symptoms are treated with HRT.
Emotionally
You were well-prepared for surgery, and the outcome affected you emotionally.
It’s normal for a woman to be depressed, but others may find that hysterectomy saves or improves their lives. Tell your doctor how you feel.
What do I do if I’ve had a hysterectomy?
Contacting my hysterectomy surgeon, if:
- Red vaginal bleeding.
- A 102°F fever.
- nausea or vomiting.
- Having trouble urinating, or frequent urination.
- Increasing pain.
- Incisional redness, swelling, or drainage.
Does hysterectomy affect sexual function?
The hysterectomy has little effect on sexual desire. Reduced sex drive and vaginal dryness are possible side effects of having the ovaries removed with the uterus before menopause. Hormonal imbalances can cause dryness.