What Happens During Hysterectomy Surgery?

A hysterectomy is when a woman's uterus is surgically removed. There are several types of treatment that can be tried before the surgery is recommended, as a final approach. The type of hysterectomy you will have will be determined by your condition, and you may just have the uterus removed, but some hysterectomies include removal of the cervix, ovaries and tubes.

There are numerous reasons why a hysterectomy needs to be performed, but the most common is painful, heavy periods in a woman passed her child-bearing years. Other diagnoses may be cancer, pregnancy or childbirth difficulties, prolapse, endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Your doctor will explain why you have been advised to have the procedure.

There are two methods of performing the surgery; the vaginal and the abdominal hysterectomy. The vaginal hysterectomy doesn't require an abdominal incision and so the recovery time is shorter and less pain is experienced. This method isn't suitable for every woman; a lot depends on her medical condition, her age and her general health.

Some pain and discomfort are to be expected after a hysterectomy; this will be more severe after an abdominal procedure. Hospital staff will offer you medication to relieve any pain and you may have a catheter to help pass urine for a day or two.

Complete bed rest is maintained for the first 24 to 36 hours after the surgery, and then patients are encouraged to get up to walk around a little and maybe to shower. The reason for encouraging walking is to lessen the chance of blood clots in the legs. The time you are in hospital varies from around three days to seven days. depending on the type of hysterectomy procedure you have had.

You will continue your recovery at home for 6 to 8 weeks so that your body can heal and you can regain your strength. It is important to rest during this time and don't do any heavy housework, stretching or lifting.

You can expect some symptoms during your recovery. You can expect some discharge and bleeding from the vagina after your hysterectomy, but you should see your doctor if it continues. Some women experience menopause symptoms, which last a few days. Some of the symptoms you may have are confusion, anxiety, sweating, hot flushes and emotional distress. You may require some HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, if the symptoms continue for any time.

Many women are worried about how a hysterectomy will affect their sex drive but most women report an improvement in this area. Patients who have had their ovaries removed may experience some dryness of the vagina, but you are able to relieve any discomfort by taking estrogen or using a vaginal lubricant. You should abstain from sexual intercourse for 6 weeks after your hysterectomy, to allow your body to heal.

Many younger women feel a sense of loss after their hysterectomy and may have other emotional issues. These symptoms don't last very long because most women feel so much better in themselves. See your doctor if any of these symptoms continue. You should always consult a doctor when needing information on hysterectomy recovery, Total Abdominal Hysterectomy and Pain After Hysterectomy.

After a few eeks at home, start going for a short walk to regain fitness and maintain your normal weight. Start slowly and increase the distance you walk gradually. This light exercise will speed your recovery and help to prevent boredom. Recovery from a hysterectomy cannot be rushed; you will be tired and you need the full recovery period to regain your strength.