Here’s a little fact – Hysterectomy is known to be the second most common surgery for women in their childbearing age. But, while we know and have heard of hysterectomy, like some other women’s health topics, it’s not talked about as much. After all, we understand it is a sensitive topic.

So, while you may be familiar with the term hysterectomy, we can’t shed light on what to expect after a hysterectomy without touching base on what it is and why you may need it. Therefore, before we talk about what happens after surgery, let’s quickly touch base on hysterectomy.

 

What is a hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus, also known as the womb. Depending on the type of hysterectomy, organs, such as the fallopian tubes and ovaries, may also be removed.

Most commonly, during a hysterectomy, the uterus and cervix are removed – also known as a total hysterectomy. However, in certain situations, only the uterus will be removed. We call this a subtotal hysterectomy, and it is much less common.

There are four methods through which your doctor may perform a hysterectomy. These are:

• Abdominal hysterectomy – An incision is made either horizontally above the pubic hairline (bikini line) or vertically from the navel to the pubic hairline. It is most commonly carried out when the patient has cancer, an enlarged uterus, large fibroids, extensive adhesions, or endometriosis.
• Laparoscopic hysterectomy – This operation is performed by making small incisions in the abdomen, also known as a ‘keyhole,’ through which the doctor inserts a laparoscope.
• Vaginal hysterectomy – This surgery involves making an incision in the upper portion of the vagina and removing the uterus through the vagina. A vaginal hysterectomyis mostly recommended for non-cancerous conditions, with the advantage of being less painful.
• Robotic hysterectomy – Dr Khotari performs this procedure using the latest technology. He will discuss your suitability for this option at your consultation.

 

Why you may need a hysterectomy

Many conditions can lead to a woman requiring a hysterectomy. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding (endometriosis/adenomyosis)
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine prolapse
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Cancer (uterus/cervix/ovary/endometrium)

A hysterectomy is usually the last solution we consider once all other treatments have been tried and failed.

 

What changes to expect after a hysterectomy

So, now that you know a little about a hysterectomy, let’s look at what to expect after surgery.

After your operation, one of the biggest changes you can expect to experience is relief from the symptoms that you were suffering from.

To begin with, you’ll experience the after-effects of the surgery, which include:

• Spending two to five days in the hospital.
• Feeling some soreness around the operation site.
• Having some vaginal bleeding and discharge.
• Bowel and bladder disturbances.

Other changes you may experience include:

• Menopausal symptoms: If your ovaries are removed, you may experience some menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, changes in mood, and sweating.
• Emotional effects: Some women feel a sense of loss and grief after a hysterectomy, especially if they undergo the operation with no other option available.
• Other health problems: Depending on the type of surgery you have had you may be at risk of or experience other health issues such as urinary incontinence or heart disease.

 

Speak to Dr Kothari today.

There are many things to consider before undergoing a hysterectomy, as it will impact your physical health, mental and emotional well-being, and future family planning. Hence, we recommend that you come in for a confidential chat with Dr Kothari to get fully informed and receive answers to any questions you may have.

To book an appointment call us on 02 4225 1999.