What Are The Types Of Hysterectomy?
During a hysterectomy the uterus is removed by the surgeon. This surgery is required when other treatments have not been successful in relieving the woman’s symptoms. Your condition will determine which type of hysterectomy your doctor will perform and exactly which organs are to be removed.
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.
You may have a vaginal or an abdominal hysterectomy. The vaginal hysterectomy doesn’t require an abdominal incision and so the recovery time is shorter and less pain is experienced. This hysterectomy method is not suitable for all women and her condition and level of general health are taken into consideration.
Some pain and discomfort are to be expected after a hysterectomy; this will be more severe after an abdominal procedure. 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.
Bed rest for a day or two after surgery is usual but then staff will help you walk around a little. This walking soon after surgery is to limit the occurrence of blood clots. The time you are in hospital varies from around three days to seven days. depending on the type of hysterectomy procedure you have had.
Make allowance for a recovery period of six to eight weeks at home, to allow for your full recovery. During this time, you should rest and lifting, stretching and heavy housework.
You will probably experience some symptoms during your recovery. Vaginal bleeding is a normal occurrence after a hysterectomy but this should ease after about two weeks. It is quite common to have some menopause symptoms after your surgery, but these usually go away after several days. You may feel like crying, be anxious or confused, have sweats or hot flashes. Some women, whose symptoms persist, are prescribed HRT (hormone replacement therapy) by their doctors.
Having had a hysterectomy should have no negative effect on your libido; many women report a positive change in this area. Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in patients who have had their ovaries removed, but this can be relieved with vaginal lubricants or HRT. You will be advised to avoid sex for around six weeks after your surgery, because the body needs this time to heal properly.
You may have some emotional or psychological symptoms like feeling a sense of loss. The majority of patients feel so much better physically that these symptoms are short-lived. You doctor will be able to help you deal with any lasting issues. The internet can provide more information on after hysterectomy, Complete Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy.
Starting a simple exercise program of short daily walks after about 3 weeks will help you regain your fitness. Be careful for the first few days and don’t go too far; you can always extend the distance after the first few days. This light exercise will speed your recovery and help to prevent boredom. You will find that you are very tired and will need the full six weeks to recover fully.
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Tags: hysterectomy, hysterectomy recovery, hysterectomy surgery, recovery period
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