A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of a womansuterus, commonly known as her womb.
While generally considered very safe, there are risks involved.
What Is a Hysterectomy?
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A hysterectomy is a common surgery performed in adult women.
It is usually a scheduled surgery performed as an inpatient procedure.
Very rarely, a hysterectomy is performed as an emergencyoften for complications related to childbirth.
The uterus is then removed from the body.
On the other hand, a woman who has chronic bleeding problems may have only the uterus removed.
Contraindications
There are really no absolute contraindications to undergoing a hysterectomy.
There may be issues that end up being relative contraindications, however.
Therefore, many women in their childbearing years attempt other less-invasive ways to treat their condition.
In some instances though, as with cancer, a hysterectomy may be a woman’s only treatment option.
You will also see your surgeon and someone from the anesthesia team before going into the operating room.
Recovery
Recovery from a hysterectomy depends somewhat on the pop in of hysterectomy performed.
During your recovery, you will experience various symptoms.
Some, like pain and constipation, may be temporary and last a few days to a week.
Others, such as vaginal bleeding and discharge, may last several weeks.
Women have different experiences.
Many are relieved that their symptoms are gone.
Complete recovery for an abdominal hysterectomy is approximately six to 12 weeks.
It’s usually sooner for a vaginal hysterectomy and may be only a week for a laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Long-Term Care
Undergoing a hysterectomy is a permanent decision that requires long-term care.
Even after you recover physically, there are still follow-up appointments.
You may also need to have further procedures performed.
For many women, their quality of life after a hysterectomy is improved.
That said, deciding to undergo a hysterectomy is a personal decisionone that requires careful and thoughtful consideration.
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