Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus (the womb). After a hysterectomy, you will no longer have menstrual periods or be able to become pregnant. Sometimes, other reproductive organs like the cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes are removed at the same time.
Our team is here to support you through this process. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Hysterectomy
This guide is designed to help you understand what a hysterectomy is, why it might be recommended, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Please remember to discuss any specific questions or concerns with your provider.
Your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy to treat various medical conditions, including:
- Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths that cause heavy bleeding, pain, or pressure.
- Endometriosis: A condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain.
- Uterine Prolapse: When the uterus slips from its normal position down into the vagina.
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Heavy, irregular, or prolonged bleeding that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain: Persistent pain related to a uterine condition.
- Gynecologic Cancer: Cancer of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries.
There are different types of hysterectomies, and the approach depends on your specific medical needs.
Types of Hysterectomies
- Total Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and the cervix.
- Supracervical (or Partial) Hysterectomy: Removal of the upper part of the uterus, leaving the cervix in place.
- Radical Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, surrounding tissues, and the top part of the vagina. This is typically done for certain types of cancer.
During the procedure, your surgeon may also perform:
- Salpingo-oophorectomy: Removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
- Salpingectomy: Removal of the fallopian tubes only.
Surgical Approaches
- Abdominal Hysterectomy: The uterus is removed through an incision in your lower abdomen.
- Vaginal Hysterectomy: The uterus is removed through a small incision made in the vagina.
- Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: A minimally invasive surgery where a thin, lighted tube (laparoscope) and small surgical tools are inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen.
- Robotic-Assisted Hysterectomy: A type of laparoscopic surgery where the surgeon controls a sophisticated robotic system to perform the procedure with great precision.
Your care team will provide detailed instructions, which may include:
- Medication Review: Discuss all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take with your doctor. You may need to stop taking certain ones, like blood thinners.
- Fasting: You will be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain period before your surgery.
- Arrange for Help: Plan for someone to drive you home and assist you with daily tasks for the first week or two of your recovery.
Recovery & Life After Surgery
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery you have. A full recovery can take anywhere from up to 8 weeks. With robotic hysterectomy, you often go home the same day. If a different surgical approach is used, you may stay in the hospital 1-3 days.
You will be prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort.
Keep your incisions clean and dry. Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions for care.
- Avoid heavy lifting (anything over 10 pounds).
- Do not put anything in the vagina (no tampons or menstrual cups, sex toys, douching, or sexual intercourse) for at least 6 weeks, or until your doctor says it’s okay.
- Gradually increase your activity level as you feel stronger. Walking is highly encouraged.
If your ovaries are removed, you will enter menopause immediately. Your doctor will discuss managing symptoms like hot flashes and the potential for hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
When to Call Your Provider
Contact our office immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C)
- Heavy vaginal bleeding that soaks through more than one pad an hour
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe pain that is not controlled by your medication
- Signs of infection at the incision site (redness, swelling, warmth, or pus)
- Nausea, vomiting, or inability to eat or drink
- Trouble urinating or painful urination
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Pain, swelling, or redness in your leg