Hysterectomy: Purpose, Procedure, Benefits, Risks & Recovery

Obstetrics and Gynaecology | Posted on 09/05/2024 by Dr. C. P. Dadhich

Introduction

Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures carried out on women, which involves uterine removal. For several medical disorders, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, persistent pelvic pain, and uterine, ovarian, or cervical cancer, it is often recommended. 

With relief from symptoms that drastically lower a woman's quality of life, the procedure has the potential to change a female life drastically. Hysterectomies are a crucial option to treat problems related to the reproductive system of a female. It can be performed for both benign and malignant disorders. 

Undergoing surgery might seem scary at first, but gaining proper information about the procedure like what can you expect can help relax your mind. If you have been advised hysterectomy or your loved one, book your appointment with one of the best gynaecologists in Jaipur at CK Birla Hospitals to ensure safety and achieve the desired results. 

In this guide, we will walk you through a hysterectomy, why it might be advised, the benefits and risks, and how to prepare for and recover from this surgery. Please note that this information is research-based and doesn’t interfere with the doctor’s consultations. 

What is Hysterectomy Surgery?

Hysterectomy surgery is a procedure that is carried out to remove the female uterus. This surgical procedure might also include removing other reproductive organs like fallopian tubes, cervix, and ovaries depending on the medical problem and the patient's needs. The surgery is performed in different ways that involve vaginal, laparoscopic approach, and abdomen. The doctor chooses the suitable method depending on the particular condition and medical history. Hysterectomy is often recommended to treat several conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, uterine prolapse, abnormal bleeding, severe pelvic pain, and certain cancer types. 

What are the Types of Hysterectomy Surgery?

The types of hysterectomy surgery are categorised based on the medical condition which involves: 

• Total Hysterectomy: In this type, the surgeon removes the cervix and uterus. 
• Subtotal (Partial) Hysterectomy: This involves uterus removal while leaving the cervix undamaged.
• Radical Hysterectomy: This is the most preferred type especially when treating gynae cancers, as the surgeon removes the uterus, upper part of the vaginal area and nearby tissues. 

What are the Benefits of Hysterectomy Surgery?

A hysterectomy surgery offers significant benefits, mainly if you are experiencing severe symptoms or are diagnosed with a serious medical condition. Here is how this surgical procedure benefits: 

• Reduces pain, heavy bleeding, and discomfort linked to several gynaecological conditions.
• Minimises symptoms interfering with regular schedules and affecting overall well-being.
• Highly recommended approach for patients diagnosed with cancer or at a high risk of developing cancer. 
• Hysterectomy offers a permanent solution to problems like endometriosis, fibroids, etc. that does not respond to other medical treatment options. 

Why is Hysterectomy Surgery Performed?

Various medical conditions linked to the female reproductive system can be treated through a hysterectomy. These are:

• Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous developments that lead to pain and heavy bleeding.
• Endometriosis: A painful condition in which the lining of uterine tissue grows outside the female uterus.
• Uterine Prolapse: Where the uterus plunges into the vaginal canal due to the weak pelvic muscles. 
• Cancer: Hysterectomy is advised to treat uterus, cervix, or ovary cancer. These reproductive parts are removed with this procedure. 
• Chronic Pelvic Pain: If a female is experiencing chronic pelvic pain that is not treatable with other options, this surgical procedure is recommended. 
• Adenomyosis: In this condition, the lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. 

What Are the Risks and Complications of Hysterectomy Surgery?

Hysterectomy surgery involves certain possible risks and complications like any other surgical procedure and it is crucial to be mindful of them. These are: 

• Experiencing bleeding during or after surgery although common but in severe cases needs medical intervention.
• Infection risk at the incision area from where the surgery is performed.
• Probable injury to the bladder, ureters, intestines, or nearby tissues.
• Increased risks of forming blood clots in the legs or lungs.
• Adverse complications or reactions linked to anaesthesia.
• Once the ovaries are removed, you might experience the symptoms of menopause early.
• Psychological impact in dealing with fertility problems and hormone modifications.

What Happens Before Hysterectomy Surgery?

A positive mindset has led to much better outcomes for most surgeries. Therefore being prepared for surgery helps. Your doctor may give you the following instructions before surgery:

• Medical evaluations: Involves undergoing recommended imaging studies and blood work.
• Medication Management: Ongoing drugs or medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be changed or stopped.
• Fasting: The surgeon might ask you to avoid eating and drinking the night before the procedure.
• Quit Smoking: To speed up recovery, cut back on drinking and quit smoking.
• Pre-Surgery Hygiene: Follow the instructions about bathing and skin preparation before the surgery.

What are the Post-operative Instructions for Hysterectomy Surgery?

A seamless recovery depends on post-operative care. Following your hysterectomy, you must ensure:

• You might have to spend one or two days in the hospital to monitor the process of healing.
• Make sure to take antibiotics and painkillers as instructed by your doctor.
• For six to eight weeks, slowly resume your regular activities while avoiding heavy lifting and intense exercise.
• Make sure to avoid infection by taking care of the wound as instructed.
• Follow-up appointments should not be missed to monitor the recovery process.
• Incorporate a balanced diet and drink enough water. 

What Does Recovery After Hysterectomy Surgery Look Like?

While recovery timeframes might differ, most women can resume their regular activities in six to eight weeks. This is what you can anticipate while recovering:

• Give yourself lots of time off from physically demanding tasks.
• Surgery can be a very tiring experience. If you need support, get help from friends, family, or a counsellor.
• To strengthen the pelvic floor, physiotherapy might be advised in certain situations.
• Keep a note of any strange symptoms, and seek assistance from your physician if you have persistently high pain, a fever, or an odd discharge.

Conclusion

A hysterectomy is a major surgery that can change the course of a woman's life by providing relief from persistent symptoms and enhancing the quality of life. You can consider this surgery with confidence and peace of mind if you gain the proper understanding of the benefits, dangers, and recovery process. Keep in mind that your medical team is always available to assist you at every stage. 

FAQs

Is Hysterectomy a Major Surgery?

Yes, a hysterectomy is regarded as a major medical procedure. Depending on the exact type of hysterectomy, it may involve the removal of other reproductive organs along with the uterus. 

What is a Vaginal Hysterectomy?

A vaginal hysterectomy is a procedure in which an incision is done in the vagina to remove the uterus. Compared to an abdominal hysterectomy, this method usually requires less recovery time and leaves no outward scars. 

Does Hysterectomy Cause Early Death?

There is no concrete proof that a hysterectomy result might lead to an early death. However, a fast drop in oestrogen levels following an oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) may raise the chance of developing certain conditions. 

Does Hysterectomy Stop Periods?

A hysterectomy does end periods. Menstrual bleeding occurs due to the shedding of the uterine lining every month, which is removed with the removal of the uterus. If the ovaries are also removed then it will trigger sudden menopause, which will end the menstrual cycle and other related symptoms.

Where Are the Internal Stitches After Hysterectomy?

Internal stitches are positioned at the spot where the uterus and other excised organs are connected after a hysterectomy. Depending on the type of hysterectomy that was done, the position of these stitches may change.