Written by Hysterectomy is the name given to the surgical removal of a woman’s uterus. This surgery is required when other treatments have not been successful in relieving the woman’s symptoms. Some hysterectomies remove the uterus, other include the cervix, while a radical hysterectomy will see the removal of uterus, cervix, ovaries and fallopian 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. There are a range of other reason from endometriosis and prolapse to cancers 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. 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.
As with all surgical procedures, some discomfort and pain are to be expected, but this will be more severe with 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.
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. This walking soon after surgery is to limit the occurrence of blood clots. 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. You will need to have some help around the house during this time because you shouldn’t lift or stretch.
During your recovery, expect some symptoms. Expect some vaginal bleeding or discharge for a week or ten days; ask your doctor about it if you are concerned. Menopause symptoms are not uncommon after having had a hysterectomy, but they should ease after a few days. These symptoms include sweating, hot flashes, anxiety, confusion and teariness. Some women, whose symptoms persist, are prescribed HRT (hormone replacement therapy) by their doctors.
Your libido will not be adversely affected by having a hysterectomy. vaginal lubricants help to remove any discomfort of vaginal dryness which is common after the ovaries are removed. You will be advised to avoid sex for around six weeks after your surgery, because the body needs this time to heal properly.
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. Your doctor is the person to ask about any concerns you have about symptoms that seem to be staying with you. You should always consult a doctor when needing information on hysterectomy recovery, Complete Hysterectomy and Radical 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. Your recovery will be enhanced with a little exercise like this and give you something positive to do. It is important not to push yourself; you will need the full 6 weeks for a full recovery and many women require 8 weeks.
THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVISE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR!
