Why do I Need a Hysterectomy?
During a hysterectomy the uterus is removed by the surgeon. There are several types of treatment that can be tried before the surgery is recommended, as a final approach. The different kinds of hysterectomy include removal of just the uterus, removal of the uterus and the cervix or the ovaries and tubes might be removed as well.
By far the most common reason for needing a hysterectomy is menstrual problems in an older woman. Other reasons include pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, prolapse of the uterus, problems during pregnancy or childbirth and some cancers. The doctor you are seeing is the best person to ask why you need to have the hysterectomy.
There are two methods of performing the surgery; the vaginal and the 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 hysterectomy method is not suitable for all women and her condition and level of general health are taken into consideration.
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.
You will be kept in bed for the first day and then encouraged to walk around a little each day. 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.
You will continue your recovery at home for 6 to 8 weeks so that your body can heal and you can regain your strength. During this time, you should rest and lifting, stretching and heavy housework.
There will be certain symptoms you can expect during recovery. Speak to the doctor if the normal vaginal discharge or bleeding continues for more than two weeks. Some women experience menopause symptoms, which last a few days. Some of the symptoms you may have are confusion, anxiety, sweating, hot flushes and emotional distress. In cases where the symptoms don’t go away, doctors may prescribe some hormone replacement therapy to alleviate the discomfort.
A hysterectomy will not affect your sex drive, except in a positive way. However, if your ovaries have been removed, you may experience vaginal dryness, which can be helped by using a vaginal lubricant or taking estrogen. it is best to avoid having sex for six weeks or so after your hysterectomy so that your body has time to heal completely.
Any emotional symptoms you feel after your surgery will be short-lived. After a hysterectomy, most women feel so much stronger physically, that the symptoms don’t last for very long. You doctor will be able to help you deal with any lasting issues. Always consult your doctor when trying to find out info on after hysterectomy, Laparoscopic Hysterectomy and Supracervical Hysterectomy.
Three weeks after you come home, start having a daily short walk to improve your fitness and enhance your recovery. Start slowly and increase the distance you walk gradually. Recovery periods can be a bit boring so the exercise will give you something to do as well as helping your recovery. It is important not to push yourself; you will need the full 6 weeks for a full recovery and many women require 8 weeks.
Your doctor should be consulted for all medical advise
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