vagina without making any external incisions. The surgeon accesses and detaches the uterus through the vaginal opening and then removes it.
Vaginal hysterectomy offers advantages such as shorter hospital stay, lower expenses and quicker recovery compared to abdominal hysterectomy, which involves an incision in the lower abdomen, according to the Mayo Clinic. The feasibility of a vaginal hysterectomy depends on factors such as the size and shape of the uterus and the specific reason for the surgery.
Pros and cons of hysterectomy
Each year U.S. doctors perform about 600,000 hysterectomies. Despite the frequency of these surgeries, the Cleveland Clinic points to some pros and cons.
Pros
- Provides relief from constant pelvic pain and irregular bleeding
- Can reduce your risk for cancer
Cons
- Hysterectomy is permanent and ends childbearing
- Depending on the type of surgery and her age, a woman may go into premature menopause or experience symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness
- Requires one to three days in the hospital and four to six weeks to recover.
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Hysterectomy side effects
Hysterectomy brings about significant changes for women who have not yet reached menopause. Monthly periods cease, and the possibility of pregnancy is eliminated. Removing ovaries can lead to a drop in estrogen levels, potentially causing early menopause symptoms.
Dr. Susan Maayah, an ob-gyn with the Sutter Health system in Northern California, points to another potential side effect.
“It is quite common after having a complete hysterectomy and removal of the ovaries for women to feel a loss of libido,” she noted in a Sutter Health release. “The ovaries produce hormones such as estrogens, progesterones, and androgens, which are partially responsible for sexual desire in females.”
As with any surgery, hysterectomy has risks. Short-term risks are typically mild and minimal, according to Stanford Medicine, and primarily occur within the first 30 days after surgery. These risks include:
- Blood loss and the potential need for a blood transfusion
- Possible damage to nearby structures, such as the bladder, urethra, blood vessels and nerves
- Risk of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs
- Potential for infection
- Side effects related to anesthesia.
In addition, women with a history of multiple abdominal surgeries or previous pelvic prolapse or relaxation may be at a higher risk of developing pelvic prolapse again.
Hysterectomy recovery
Hysterectomy recovery involves a period of healing and adjustment. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the recovery process can vary depending on the surgical approach and individual factors. Generally, patients can expect to spend a few days in the hospital. During the initial recovery phase, it is normal to experience some discomfort, fatigue and vaginal bleeding.
Pain medication and rest are typically prescribed to manage these symptoms. Patients who have just undergone a hysterectomy should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during recovery, which may last several weeks. Gradually, patients can