Hysterectomy: how soon can I return to work?

A hysterectomy is when a woman’s uterus is surgically removed. Surgery is usually the last option when the other viable treatments have failed in alleviating the symptoms. There are different types of hysterectomy performed for different conditions so you might just have your uterus removed, but ovaries, tubes and cervix may also be taken.

The most common reason for having a hysterectomy is extreme period symptoms in an older woman. There are other reasons why a hysterectomy is recommended – uterine prolapse, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, childbirth complications and cancer. Your doctor will explain why you have been advised to have the procedure.

There are two methods of performing the surgery; the vaginal and the abdominal hysterectomy. Recovery is usually faster and less painful with a vaginal procedure because it doesn’t involve an incision and stitches. This method isn’t suitable for every woman; a lot depends on her medical condition, her age and her general health.

As with all surgical procedures, some discomfort and pain are to be expected, but this will be more severe with an abdominal hysterectomy. Usually a catheter is inserted during a hysterectomy and stays in place for the first day or two to help drain urine and pain medication will be given to relief discomfort.

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. The reason for encouraging walking is to lessen the chance of blood clots in the legs. The length of the hospital stay differs according to the type of procedure; from three or four days for vaginal hysterectomy patients to six or seven days for abdominal hysterectomy patients.

Recovery is continued at home for 6 to 8 weeks to allow the wound to heal, abdominal muscles to strengthen and the emotional aspects of surgery to settle. It is important to rest during this time and don’t do any heavy housework, stretching or lifting.

There will be certain symptoms you can expect during recovery. Expect some vaginal bleeding or discharge for a week or ten days; ask your doctor about it if you are concerned. Some women experience menopause symptoms, which last a few days. Menopause symptoms include things like crying, confusion, sweats, hot flashes and feeling anxious. If these symptoms continue, your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy.

Many women are worried about how a hysterectomy will affect their sex drive but most women report an improvement in this area. Vaginal dryness is a common symptom in patients who have had their ovaries removed, but this can be relieved with vaginal lubricants or HRT. Your body needs time to heal and so abstaining from sexual intercourse for about 6 weeks after your surgery is recommended.

Some women feel a sense of loss after a hysterectomy or feel they are less of a woman. Because the majority of women feel so much stronger these few symptoms quickly fade. If you find that some of these issues are continuing, ask your doctor for advice. Always consult your doctor when trying to find out info on hysterectomy surgery, Laparoscopic Hysterectomy and Supracervical 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. Light, frequent exercise like this will help your full recovery. It is important not to push yourself; you will need the full 6 weeks for a full recovery and many women require 8 weeks.

THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVISE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR!

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