Hysterectomy

What is hysterectomy?

This is a procedure to remove the womb.

It may be done through the vagina, through an incision on the belly or via keyhole surgery.
The route by which a hysterectomy is performed depends on the reason for surgery, your prior surgical procedures and on examination findings.
 

What are the risks?

There are risks and complications that may occur with this procedure:

• Bleeding, requiring a blood transfusion.
• Infection, requiring antibiotics or further management.
• Injury to the surrounding organs (bladder, bowel, ureter), requiring further surgical procedures to correct problems.
• Bowel blockage.
• Connection between the bladder or ureter and vagina, or bowel and vagina, requiring further surgery to the correct problem.
• Poor wound healing.
• Incomplete removal of the cervix with abdominal approach.
• Sexual dysfunction.
• General risks such as lung collapse and infection, heart attack, stroke, blood clots in the legs and lungs.

Recovery

The length of stay in hospital will depend on the route of the hysterectomy. It will also depend on any complications that may occur during the procedure. It is generally safe for you to go home when you are able to mobilize independently, able to pass urine and open your bowels. You will experience light vaginal bleeding that may last several weeks. Upon discharge you will receive prescription painkillers.

You will need 4-6 weeks for recovery after surgery. During the recovery time you will be advised against driving, lifting heavy weights or having sexual intercourse. You will have a follow up appointment in 6 weeks.

If you are unwell, experience worsening pain, bleeding, fever or unusual vaginal discharge, please see your GP or contact our clinic.