How Long is Recovery After Hysterectomy?
During a hysterectomy the uterus is removed by the surgeon. After the applicable treatments have been tried but not helped with the symptoms, the operation is the then recommended as a final solution. Some hysterectomies remove the uterus, other include the cervix, while a radical hysterectomy will see the removal of uterus, cervix, ovaries and fallopian tubes.
The most common reason for having a hysterectomy is extreme period symptoms in an older woman. There are a range of other reason from endometriosis and prolapse to cancers and pelvic inflammatory disease. Ask for a full explanation from the doctor of the reasons why you need a hysterectomy.
There are two ways to perform this surgery; they are vaginal and abdominal. Patients who have a vaginal procedure usually recover faster and experience less pain because there has been no incision and therefore no stitches. This method isn’t right for all patients because it may not be feasible considering the individual’s reason for surgery and the general health and age.
Some pain and discomfort are to be expected after a hysterectomy; this will be more severe after an abdominal procedure. Analgesics are administered in the hospital to give relief; a catheter is usually inserted during the surgery for urine to pass and this will remain in place for 24 to 48 hours.
You will be kept in bed for the first day and then encouraged to walk around a little each day. To reduce the possibility of clots in the legs, is why patients are taken for walks soon after surgery. The stay in hospital for women who have had a vaginal hysterectomy is 3 or 4 days; for those who have had an adbominal hysterectomy, it is closer to one week.
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. 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. Speak to the doctor if the normal vaginal discharge or bleeding continues for more than two weeks. Menopause symptoms are not uncommon after having had a hysterectomy, but they should ease after a few days. These symptoms include sweating, hot flashes, anxiety, confusion and teariness. In cases where the symptoms don’t go away, doctors may prescribe some hormone replacement therapy to alleviate the discomfort.
A hysterectomy will not affect your sex drive, except in a positive way. Patients who have had their ovaries removed may experience some dryness of the vagina, but you are able to relieve any discomfort by taking estrogen or using a vaginal lubricant. You will be advised to avoid sex for around six weeks after your surgery, because the body needs this time to heal properly.
You may have some emotional or psychological symptoms like feeling a sense of loss. Because the majority of women feel so much stronger these few symptoms quickly fade. Your doctor is the person to ask about any concerns you have about symptoms that seem to be staying with you. The internet can provide more information on after hysterectomy, Complete Hysterectomy and Pain After Hysterectomy.
Starting a simple exercise program of short daily walks after about 3 weeks will help you regain your fitness. Be careful for the first few days and don’t go too far; you can always extend the distance after the first few days. Light, frequent exercise like this will help your full recovery. Recovery from a hysterectomy cannot be rushed; you will be tired and you need the full recovery period to regain your strength.
Your doctor should be consulted for all medical advise
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