What Is A Vaginal Hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is the name given to the surgical removal of a woman's uterus. After the applicable treatments have been tried but not helped with the symptoms, the operation is the then recommended as a final solution. 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. There are a range of other reason from endometriosis and prolapse to cancers and pelvic inflammatory disease. Ask for a full explanation from the doctor of the reasons why you need a hysterectomy.

There are two ways to perform this surgery; they are vaginal and abdominal. Recovery is usually faster and less painful with a vaginal procedure because it doesn't involve an incision and stitches. This method isn't right for all patients because it may not be feasible considering the individual's reason for surgery and the general health and age.

Some pain and discomfort are to be expected after a hysterectomy; this will be more severe after an abdominal procedure. Usually a catheter is inserted during a hysterectomy and stays in place for the first day or two to help drain urine and pain medication will be given to relief discomfort.

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. Vaginal hysterectomy patients are usually discharged after 3 or 4 days but abdominal hysterectomy patients have a hospital stay of up to one week.

You will need a recovery time of 6 or 8 weeks at home to allow wounds to heal and muscles to mend. Arrange someone to help you during your recovery period so you can avoid any heavy lifting, stretching or bending.

Expect to have some symptoms during your recovery period. Speak to the doctor if the normal vaginal discharge or bleeding continues for more than two weeks. Menopause symptoms are not uncommon after having had a hysterectomy, but they should ease after a few days. You may feel like crying, be anxious or confused, have sweats or hot flashes. 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. 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. Most patients find that they feel much better after their surgery that the symptoms disappear quickly. If you find that some of these issues are continuing, ask your doctor for advice.

Starting a simple exercise program of short daily walks after about 3 weeks will help you regain your fitness. Start slowly and increase the distance you walk gradually. Your recovery will be enhanced with a little exercise like this and give you something positive to do. You will need the full recovery time so it is important not to push yourself to recover sooner.

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