Things to Expect After Hysterectomy

A Total Hysterectomy is an operation that removes the cervix, uterus, and surrounding tissue. It is commonly recommended for the treatment of gynecologic Cancer. What can you expect if a total hysterectomy was included in your treatment plan? You will have a different experience depending on what type of procedure was performed. Your particular needs will dictate whether your doctor recommends a minimally-invasive or open approach, like laparoscopy or robotic assist, or a vaginal approach (laparotomy).

You could also have a different but similar treatment termed a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy in addition to a hysterectomy to remove both ovaries and both fallopian tubes. This procedure can be performed at the same time as your hysterectomy.

What to Expect?

You can expect five things after a hysterectomy.

  1. You may experience some bleeding in your vaginal area for 24 hours after your hysterectomy. The bleeding will taper off gradually over the next 24 hours. If you feel that your bleeding is becoming heavier than it used to be, contact your physician immediately.
  2. Due to the fact that a hysterectomy involves major surgery, you might feel very tired. This can last up to several weeks. Keep active but make sure to take breaks.
  3. Over several weeks, your vaginal discharge might appear bloody at first but then becomes lighter and thinner as time goes by.
  4. You might experience the symptoms of menopause if your ovaries and both of your ovaries were removed. These include hot flashes or night sweats as well as dryness of the genital area. If necessary, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy or other medication to alleviate your discomfort.

What Is A Vaginal Band And How Can It Be Used?

A vaginal band is a covering that is applied at the top of the area where the cervix is located. A vaginal closure is made by a surgeon by joining the top half of the vagina. It is often done as part of a total or radical hysterectomy.

Women who want to have the uterus surgically removed by doctors are advised to undergo hysterectomies. The cervix (or lower part) of the uterus is where it meets the pelvis.

A surgeon will perform a total or radical hysterectomy. This involves the removal of all uterus contents, including the cervix. The surgeon will then insert a vaginal tube in place of her cervix.

Sometimes, a vaginal procedure can be performed in a separate session from a full hysterectomy. This is to repair any tearing or poor healing.

Recovery

Because every woman is different, it is vital to talk to a doctor about the healing process.

A doctor will generally give these instructions to a woman who has just had a total hysterectomy.

  • Take plenty of time to rest during the first few weeks.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise.
  • •        Be careful with any activity which puts pressure on the pelvic.
  • Treat chronic coughs.
  • Avoid straining during bowel movements.
  • Refrain from any sexual activity.
  • Tampons should not be used
  • Do not insert any other medication than what is prescribed into your vagina.

Prescriptions for pain relief and prevention are also available from a doctor. Estrogen cream may be recommended by a doctor to treat the vaginal bump.

If you are leaking clear fluid after hysterectomy, it is most likely due to serous discharge. This is a common side effect of the surgery and usually resolves itself within a few weeks. However, if you experience excessive discharge or severe pain, please contact your doctor immediately.