I may have to have Vaginal Hysterectomy...what should I exspect ? How long will I be off work ?

Answer 1

Vaginal hysterectomy is surgical removal of the uterus through an incision in the vagina. The ovaries and other organs may also be removed. Whenever possible, vaginal hysterectomy is generally the best approach. Vaginal hysterectomy is not appropriate for cancer of the ovaries or extensive cancer of the cervix.

The advantages of vaginal hysterectomy include shorter hospital stay and recovery time, less pain, lower cost, and no abdomen scars.

Disadvantages to consider are:

Possible shortening of vagina length, which may cause painful intercourse in the first months after surgery

Difficulty in removing a large uterus or large fibroids and areas of endometriosis and adenomyosis.

Less operating space makes it difficult for the surgeon to see other pelvic organs.

Fluids and food are generally offered soon after surgery. Intravenous (IV) fluids may be administered during the first day, particularly if there is nausea or vomiting. Pain medicine is given as needed, either intravenously, or by intramuscular (IM) injection or pill. Patients are encouraged to resume their normal daily activities as soon as possible. Regaining mobility is particularly important since it helps to prevent complications, such as blood clots, pneumonia, and gas pains.

Walking and stair climbing are encouraged; tub baths and showers are permitted. Driving should be avoided until full mobility returns and narcotic pain relievers are no longer required.

To minimize stress on the healing tissues, patients will be asked to avoid lifting greater than 20 pounds (9 kg) for four to six weeks after surgery. Vaginal intercourse, tampons, and douching are not recommended for the same time period to allow complete healing.

A patient should call her surgeon if she experiences pain that is not relieved with medication, persistent nausea or vomiting, bleeding heavier than a menstrual period, fever greater than 101º F or 38º C, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or inability to empty the bladder or bowels.

Constipation is common after surgery and while using narcotic pain medications, and can often be controlled with stool-softening medications such as Colace® (docusate sodium) and stool bulking agents such as psyllium (Metamucil®), methylcellulose (Citrucel®), or calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon®). (See "Patient information: Constipation"). A woman who does not have a bowel movement within 3 days should contact her surgeon for further advice.

Normal activities can be resumed gradually over a six-week period. Patients may return to work as soon as they have sufficient stamina and mobility.

Answer 2

I had a total hysterectomy with ovary removal just three days ago. I have had very little pain and discomfort. I was able to get up within 24 hours after surgery. Although I am not 100%, I do feel better than I did prior to surgery. I have controled constipation with a liberal use of magnisium citrate and orange juice. I had some serious discomfort going to the bathroom, at first but the pain has eased as the days go on. My only concern is the patch they gave me for hormone replacement. My skin is very oily and the patch continues to come off. I am going to discusss with my DR taking pills instead of the patch. I had bled for over 9 months prior to surgery and had to have two blood transfusions (A total of 6 pints of blood) for my condition. If you are having problems bad enough for them to consider surgery, you will be relieved when it is all over with.

Answer 3

Hi, I had mine back in 2000, went back to work 7 days later. They say 6 weeks before going back to work and not to lift or drive for a while. I feel so much better, but you need to talk to your doctor because no matter what they say it WIll change you private moments (wife and husband time together).

Good Luck

Answer 4

I didnt work before I had mine, but I didnt feel like ME again for about 5 months. I was flat on my back for a few days, and then when Id get up, I felt like my guts were falling out. I was also very weak.

That was ME though. I know other women that got better, quicker.

Answer 5

I will not be here, off work and got a lot of stuff to do so maybe I'll be online tomorrow night at home.

Answer 6

All you need to know:

http://www.medicinenet.com/hysterectomy/article.htm

http://health.yahoo.com/ency/healthwise/tw9975b