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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. Your condition will determine which type of hysterectomy your doctor will perform and exactly which organs are to be removed.

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. Other reasons include pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, prolapse of the uterus, problems during pregnancy or childbirth and some cancers. 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. Recovery is usually faster and less painful with a vaginal procedure because it doesn’t involve an incision and stitches. Not all women are candidates for this method; it depends on the reason the surgery is required, the age and general health of the patient.

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.

Bed rest for a day or two after surgery is usual but then staff will help you walk around a little. This light walking is to reduce the risk of clots forming in the blood vessels of the legs. 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.

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. You will need to have some help around the house during this time because you shouldn’t lift or stretch.

You will probably experience 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. Menopause symptoms are not uncommon after having had a hysterectomy, but they should ease after a few days. Menopause symptoms include things like crying, confusion, sweats, hot flashes and feeling anxious. You may require some HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, if the symptoms continue for any time.

Your libido will not be adversely affected by having a hysterectomy. Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in patients who have had their ovaries removed, but this can be relieved with vaginal lubricants or HRT. Your body needs time to heal and so abstaining from sexual intercourse for about 6 weeks after your surgery is recommended.

You may have some emotional or psychological symptoms like feeling a sense of loss. 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. The internet can provide more information on hysterectomy surgery, Total Abdominal Hysterectomy and Pain After 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. Light, frequent exercise like this will help your full recovery. Recovery from a hysterectomy cannot be rushed; you will be tired and you need the full recovery period to regain your strength.

Warning this is not medical advise