Hysterectomy is surgical removal of the uterus. The uterus may be removed to treat fibroids, cancer, uterine prolapse, endometriosis or chronic pelvic pain. Because there are several methods of performing a hysterectomy, recovery time and post-surgical restrictions will vary from one patient to the next. Following all instructions carefully can help to shorten recovery time and reduce pain and discomfort.
Vaginal Hysterectomy
During a vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus is removed from the body via a small incision in the vagina. Recovery from this procedure begins in the hospital, where a patient will remain hospitalized for one to three days after the hysterectomy. The recovery period for vaginal hysterectomy is much shorter than the recovery period for abdominal hysterectomy. Most patients feel better in as little as one week and are back to normal within two weeks. It is important to avoid engaging in sexual intercourse or lifting objects weighing more than 20 lbs. until six weeks have passed. Complications to watch out for include vomiting, nausea or heavy bleeding.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a less invasive method of removing the uterus from the pelvic cavity. Three small incisions are made near the belly button and hip bones. The operating physician cuts the uterus away from the cervix and uses surgical instruments to cut it into strips. The strips are then removed from the body through a tube. After this procedure, the patient will spend one night in the hospital. Some soreness around the incisions and discomfort from the gas used to inflate the abdomen during the procedure are to be expected. Patients may return to work within one to two weeks depending on how they feel.
Abdominal Hysterectomy
Vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomy are not options for some patients. Extensive pelvic adhesions (scarring) or the location of tumors or fibroids can make an open abdominal hysterectomy necessary. During this procedure, an incision is made in the abdomen so the uterus can be removed. The recovery period from this procedure is much lengthier than that of the vaginal hysterectomy or laparoscopic hysterectomy. Instead of a one-day hospital stay, patients who have an open hysterectomy will be in the hospital for three to six days after the procedure. A recovery time of six to eight weeks is normal, but will vary based on the patient's general health and fitness. During this recovery period, heavy lifting, sexual intercourse and strenuous activity should be avoided. Patients can resume these activities after they have followed up with their physician and are given approval.
Tags: recovery period, this procedure, recovery time, uterus removed, abdominal hysterectomy, days after
