Information On Hysterectomy and What You Need To Know

Hysterectomy is the name given to the surgical removal of a woman’s uterus. The operation is usually recommended when other options have failed to relieve the symptoms the individual woman is experiencing. There are different types of hysterectomy performed for different conditions so you might just have your uterus removed, but ovaries, tubes and cervix may also be taken.

The most common reason for having a hysterectomy is extreme period symptoms in an older woman. Additional reasons are pregnancy or birthing problems, some cancers, prolapse of the uterus, endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Ask for a full explanation from the doctor of the reasons why you need a hysterectomy.

You may have a vaginal or an abdominal hysterectomy. The recovery time after a vaginal hysterectomy is often short and with less pain because there has been no incision or stitches. This method isn’t right for all patients because it may not be feasible considering the individual’s reason for surgery and the general health and age.

You should be prepared for some pain after the surgery, particularly if you had an abdominal hysterectomy. Analgesics are administered in the hospital to give relief; a catheter is usually inserted during the surgery for urine to pass and this will remain in place for 24 to 48 hours.

You will be kept in bed for the first day and then encouraged to walk around a little each day. To reduce the possibility of clots in the legs, is why patients are taken for walks soon after surgery. The time you are in hospital varies from around three days to seven days. depending on the type of hysterectomy procedure you have had.

Recovery is continued at home for 6 to 8 weeks to allow the wound to heal, abdominal muscles to strengthen and the emotional aspects of surgery to settle. 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. Some vaginal discharge and bleeding is normal for a week or so after a hysterectomy; if this continues, speak to your doctor. Some women experience menopause symptoms, which last a few days. The symptoms you may experience are hot flashes and sweating, confusion and anxiety and feeling like crying unexpectedly. If your menopause symptoms continue for longer, you may be a candidate for hormone replacement therapy or HRT.

Your libido will not be adversely affected by having a hysterectomy. A common symptom in patients who have also had ovaries removed is dryness of the vagina, but you can get relief with taking estrogen and vaginal lubricants. Your body needs time to heal and so abstaining from sexual intercourse for about 6 weeks after your surgery is recommended.

Some women experience psychological and emotional symptoms after hysterectomy, including a sense of loss or feeling less of a woman, especially younger women. 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. A doctor should be the point of contact when trying to find info on after hysterectomy, Complete Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy.

Starting a simple exercise program of short daily walks after about 3 weeks will help you regain your fitness. Don’t overdo it in the beginning, but gradually increase the length of your daily walk. This light exercise will speed your recovery and help to prevent boredom. It is important not to push yourself; you will need the full 6 weeks for a full recovery and many women require 8 weeks.

Warning this is not medical advise