Why do I Need a Hysterectomy?

During a hysterectomy the uterus is removed by the surgeon. After the applicable treatments have been tried but not helped with the symptoms, the operation is the then recommended as a final solution. 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.

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. The doctor you are seeing is the best person to ask why you need to have the hysterectomy.

You may have a vaginal or an 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 right for all patients because it may not be feasible considering the individual’s reason for surgery and the general health and age.

You will probably have some pain after your hysterectomy; more so if you had 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.

After a day or so of bed rest, you will be allowed up and you need to walk for a while each day. This walking soon after surgery is to limit the occurrence of blood clots. Vaginal hysterectomy patients are usually discharged after 3 or 4 days but abdominal hysterectomy patients have a hospital stay of up to one week.

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. 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. Expect some vaginal bleeding or discharge for a week or ten days; ask your doctor about it if you are concerned. After a hysterectomy, some women will have menopause-type symptoms, lasting for a few days to a week. Menopause symptoms include things like crying, confusion, sweats, hot flashes and feeling anxious. If these symptoms continue, your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy.

Many women are worried about how a hysterectomy will affect their sex drive but most women report an improvement in this area. Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in patients who have had their ovaries removed, but this can be relieved with vaginal lubricants or HRT. You should abstain from sexual intercourse for 6 weeks after your hysterectomy, to allow your body to heal.

Some women experience psychological and emotional symptoms after hysterectomy, including a sense of loss or feeling less of a woman, especially younger women. The majority of patients feel so much better physically that these symptoms are short-lived. If you find that some of these issues are continuing, ask your doctor for advice. The internet can provide more information on hysterectomy recovery, Complete Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy.

Starting a simple exercise program of short daily walks after about 3 weeks will help you regain your fitness. Make sure you start off slowly and then gradually lengthen your walks in time or distance. 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.

Your doctor should be consulted for all medical advise