Hysterectomy: what you need to know
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. 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.
While there are many reasons why a hysterectomy is indicated, the most common is painful heavy periods in a woman who has finished having children. There are a range of other reason from endometriosis and prolapse to cancers and pelvic inflammatory disease. The doctor you are seeing is the best person to ask why you need to have the hysterectomy.
The two methods of performing the surgery are vaginal and abdominal. Recovery is usually faster and less painful with a vaginal procedure because it doesn’t involve an incision and stitches. This method isn’t suitable for every woman; a lot depends on her medical condition, her age and her general health.
You should be prepared for some pain after the surgery, particularly if you had an abdominal hysterectomy. During a hysterectomy, often the doctor inserts a catheter to help pass urine for the first twenty four to forty eight hours, and you will be offered analgesics for any pain.
After a day or so of bed rest, you will be allowed up and you need to walk for a while each day. To reduce the possibility of clots in the legs, is why patients are taken for walks soon after surgery. Patients who have had a vaginal procedure stay in hospital for about 3 or 4 days whereas those who have had abdominal surgery stay for 6 to 7 days.
You will need a recovery time of 6 or 8 weeks at home to allow wounds to heal and muscles to mend. Arrange someone to help you during your recovery period so you can avoid any heavy lifting, stretching or bending.
You will probably experience some symptoms during your recovery. Vaginal bleeding is a normal occurrence after a hysterectomy but this should ease after about two weeks. You may experience some menopause-type symptoms, but these will usually subside after a week or less. Some of the symptoms you may have are confusion, anxiety, sweating, hot flushes and emotional distress. If your menopause symptoms continue for longer, you may be a candidate for hormone replacement therapy or HRT.
Having had a hysterectomy should have no negative effect on your libido; many women report a positive change 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. it is best to avoid having sex for six weeks or so after your hysterectomy so that your body has time to heal completely.
You may have some emotional or psychological symptoms like feeling a sense of loss. Because the majority of women feel so much stronger these few symptoms quickly fade. You doctor will be able to help you deal with any lasting issues. The internet can provide more information on after hysterectomy, Complete Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy.
Three weeks after you come home, start having a daily short walk to improve your fitness and enhance your recovery. Don’t overdo it in the beginning, but gradually increase the length of your daily walk. Your recovery will be enhanced with a little exercise like this and give you something positive to do. You will find that you are very tired and will need the full six weeks to recover fully.
This not not medical advise always consult your physcian for medical advise
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