A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the womb (uterus). It is often combined with a bilateral salpingo-oöphorectomy where the ovaries and fallopian tubes are also removed.
What are the Benefits of Surgery?
An abdominal hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods.
Are There Any Alternatives to an Abdominal Hysterectomy?
Heavy periods can be treated using oral medications, an IUD (intra-uterine device), or by removing only the lining of the womb.
Depending on the size and position of fibroids, you can take medication to try to control the symptoms. Other treatments include surgery to remove the fibroids only or uterine artery embolisation.
The Procedure
What Does the Operation Involve?
The operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. The operation usually takes about an hour.
Your gynaecologist will make a cut on your abdomen, usually on your ‘bikini’ line. They will remove your womb, usually along with your cervix, through the cut. To remove your cervix, they will also need to make a cut at the top of your vagina.
What Complications Can Happen When You Have a Hysterectomy?
General Complications
- Pain
- Feeling or being sick
- Bleeding
- Infection of the surgical site (wound)
- Developing a hernia
- Blood clots
- Unsightly scarring
Specific Complications
- Pelvic infection or abscess
- Damage to structures close to your womb
- Developing a fistula
- Developing a haematoma
- Vaginal cuff dehiscence
Long-term Problems
- Prolapse
- Continued pain
- Adhesions
- Stress incontinence
- Feelings of loss (a hysterectomy will make you infertile)
- Menopause, even if your ovaries are not removed
Following Surgery
How Soon Will I Recover?
You will usually be able to go home after four to six days.
Rest for two weeks and continue to do the exercises that you were shown in hospital. You can usually return to work after six to eight weeks, depending on your type of work.
You should be feeling more or less back to normal after three months.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.
Summary
A hysterectomy is a major operation usually recommended after simpler treatments have failed. Your symptoms should improve.
If you would like any more information about having an Abdominal Hysterectomy at New Victoria Hospital, please call us today on 020 8949 9000 and we will be happy to assist you. Alternatively, fill out our contact form.
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Miss Rowena Bevan
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Professor Stergios Doumouchtsis
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Mr Demetri Panayi
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