A hysterectomy is when a woman’s uterus is surgically removed. There are several types of treatment that can be tried before the surgery is recommended, as a final approach. 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.

The most common reason for having a hysterectomy is extreme period symptoms in an older woman. Additional reasons are pregnancy or birthing problems, some cancers, prolapse of the uterus, endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Ask the doctor for the reasons he has recommended a hysterectomy.

You may have a vaginal or an abdominal hysterectomy. Without needing an incision in the abdomen, a vaginal hysterectomy patient will usually recover faster and will be less bothered by pain. This method isn’t suitable for every woman; a lot depends on her medical condition, her age and her general health.

Some pain and discomfort are to be expected after a hysterectomy; this will be more severe after an abdominal procedure. Hospital staff will offer you medication to relieve any pain and you may have a catheter to help pass urine for a day or two.

Complete bed rest is maintained for the first 24 to 36 hours after the surgery, and then patients are encouraged to get up to walk around a little and maybe to shower. This light walking is to reduce the risk of clots forming in the blood vessels of the legs. Patients who have had a vaginal procedure stay in hospital for about 3 or 4 days whereas those who have had abdominal surgery stay for 6 to 7 days.

Your body needs time to heal so make sure you allow at least six weeks, maybe eight, to regain your strength. Arrange someone to help you during your recovery period so you can avoid any heavy lifting, stretching or bending.

During your recovery, expect some symptoms. You can expect some discharge and bleeding from the vagina after your hysterectomy, but you should see your doctor if it continues. Some women experience menopause symptoms, which last a few days. These symptoms include sweating, hot flashes, anxiety, confusion and teariness. If these symptoms continue, your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy.

Your hysterectomy should have no negative impact on your libido, in fact, many women report that it is enhanced. However, if your ovaries have been removed, you may experience vaginal dryness, which can be helped by using a vaginal lubricant or taking estrogen. You should abstain from sexual intercourse for 6 weeks after your hysterectomy, to allow your body to heal.

You may have some emotional or psychological symptoms like feeling a sense of loss. After a hysterectomy, most women feel so much stronger physically, that the symptoms don’t last for very long. If you find that some of these issues are continuing, ask your doctor for advice. You should always consult a doctor when needing information on hysterectomy recovery, Complete Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy.

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. This light exercise will speed your recovery and help to prevent boredom. You will need the full recovery time so it is important not to push yourself to recover sooner.

Warning this is not medical advise