Information On The Hysterectomy Recovery Period

During a hysterectomy the uterus is removed by the surgeon. Surgery is usually the last option when the other viable treatments have failed in alleviating the 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.

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. Your doctor will explain why you have been advised to have the procedure.

Your doctor may do the surgery through the vagina or an incision across your abdomen. The vaginal hysterectomy doesn’t require an abdominal incision and so the recovery time is shorter and less pain is experienced. 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.

You can expect to have some post-operative pain and discomfort, especially after 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.

You will be kept in bed for the first day and then encouraged to walk around a little each day. To reduce the possibility of clots in the legs, is why patients are taken for walks soon after surgery. The length of the hospital stay differs according to the type of procedure; from three or four days for vaginal hysterectomy patients to six or seven days for abdominal hysterectomy patients.

Your body needs time to heal so make sure you allow at least six weeks, maybe eight, to regain your strength. Arrange someone to help you during your recovery period so you can avoid any heavy lifting, stretching or bending.

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. You may experience some menopause-type symptoms, but these will usually subside after a week or less. These symptoms include sweating, hot flashes, anxiety, confusion and teariness. If your menopause symptoms continue for longer, you may be a candidate for hormone replacement therapy or HRT.

Many women are worried about how a hysterectomy will affect their sex drive but most women report an improvement in this area. 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. 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. A doctor should be the point of contact when trying to find info on hysterectomy recovery, Complete Hysterectomy and Supracervical Hysterectomy.

After a few eeks at home, start going for a short walk to regain fitness and maintain your normal weight. Make sure you start off slowly and then gradually lengthen your walks in time or distance. Light, frequent exercise like this will help your full 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.

Warning this is not medical advise