Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed. Hysterectomy risks and benefits should be carefully considered before making an appointment for the procedure. While there are several benefits of hysterectomy such as relief from conditions like uterine fibroids and endometriosis, there are also risks after hysterectomy such as infection, bleeding and other issues based on the type of hysterectomy. Therefore, it is advisable to talk with your doctor and then make an informed decision. Post surgery recovery typically takes four to six weeks, varying based on the type of surgery undergone.
While a hysterectomy reduces the risk of specific types of cancer (like ovarian because of ovary removal and endometrial cancer as the uterus is removed), it does not eliminate the risk of all types of cancers. Here is a detailed breakdown on hysterectomy risks and benefits are discussed below.
What to Expect Post Hysterectomy Procedure?
Post hysterectomy procedure, the changes and recovery process can vary based on the type of hysterectomy performed and whether there has been ovary removal. Here’s what generally happens to your body after a hysterectomy:
- Menopause: If there has been ovary removal at the time of the hysterectomy, you will experience menopause immediately. This can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and changes in libido.
- Recovery period: Recovery from a hysterectomy can take time depending on the type of surgery and your immunity. It’s important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions regarding physical activity and wound care.
- Psychological recovery: The surgical procedure can take a mental toll on some women as some may look at it as a huge loss. However, it is important to take professional help if you are unable to deal with it on your own.
- One of the long term risks of hysterectomy includes potential increase in the risk of uterine prolapse.
- Post surgery you will experience pain and discomfort which will go away with medications prescribed by your doctor.
Risks and Benefits of Different Types of Hysterectomy
Risks after hysterectomy differ depending on the type of surgery performed:
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgery in which the uterus is removed by making small cuts using special instruments. Here are the risks and benefits in this type of procedure.
- Risks: Very rarely there is a small risk of blood clots and pneumonia which is dealt with by taking preventive measures beforehand. Although there are no long term risks of hysterectomy there is a slight possibility of developing urinary issues or bowel problems.
- Benefits: Since laparoscopic hysterectomy is minimally invasive, there is lesser pain and scarring. There is less blood loss and a faster recovery period. Also, postoperative infection possibility is also reduced.
Total Hysterectomy
In Total hysterectomy the uterus is removed including ovaries and fallopian tubes as well as the cervix. Total hysterectomy risks and benefits are as follows:
- Risks: If the ovaries are removed, menopause may hit sooner even if the woman has not reached menopausal age. This can in turn result in vaginal dryness, mood swings and hot flashes. When the uterus is removed, there might be loss of pelvic support which can later lead to uterine prolapse. Total hysterectomy may also cause emotional distress especially if the operation was done at a young age.
- Benefits: This surgical process is often performed to treat uterine fibroids, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding. It may be recommended for treating uterine cancer as well as the cancer of ovaries and cervix.
Partial Hysterectomy
In this surgical process, only the upper part of the uterus is removed leaving the cervix untouched.
- Risks: The long term risks of hysterectomy include that the cervix may still be susceptible to cervical cancer and other types of cancers.
- Benefits: One of the benefits of hysterectomy is that leaving the cervix unharmed may reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse in the future. Recovery period is also faster as compared to a total hysterectomy.
Radical Hysterectomy
This surgical procedure for gynecologic cancers and it involves removal of the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues. Hysterectomy risks and benefits include the following:
- Risks: There is a higher risk of complications at the time of the surgery as the procedure is quite extensive in nature. There can be a significant impact on the bladder and the bowel function because of their proximity to the surgical site.
- Benefits: Provides treatment for cancers such as uterine cancer or surrounding tissues.
Choosing the relevant type of hysterectomy while keeping in mind the hysterectomy risks and benefits depends on the patient’s health and the patient’s preference of future fertility. As with any other surgical procedure, hysterectomy includes several complications. Here are some potential complications that you need to keep an eye on:
- Allergic reactions or respiratory problems can occur due to complications arising from anesthesia.
- You might face bowel problems leading to constipation, diarrhea or bowel obstruction.
- Excessive bleeding might occur at the time of operation which might command further surgical intervention.
- One of the risks after hysterectomy includes infection at the surgical site which might require antibiotic treatment.
- One other risk of hysterectomy after surgery is the possibility of formation of blood clots if not treated on time.
Post Surgery Precautions and Guidelines
Post surgery it is important to monitor your recovery as you are now well versed with the hysterectomy risks and benefits. Talk with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Some spotting and light bleeding is normal post the surgical procedure. However, if you notice bright red bleeding that is heavy and requires changing pads frequently, talk with your doctor immediately.
- If you are experiencing high fever then that indicates the onset of an infection which is a complication that can arise post surgery.
- It is normal to feel some amount of pain and discomfort post surgical procedure. However, if your pain becomes more intense or you don’t experience any relief with pain medications, this may indicate a complication such as infection or internal bleeding.
- If you experience severe nausea and vomiting, it is important to seek medical attention.
- Burning sensation when urinating or are having difficulty while urinating, then that can indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI).
- Keep monitoring your incision site for any sign of infection such as swelling or redness.
A hysterectomy is an important surgical procedure with potential long-term impacts on health and well-being. Discussing all aspects of the surgery, including the type of hysterectomy and its potential effects, with your doctor beforehand is crucial for making informed decisions about your care and managing long term risks of hysterectomy. There are several hysterectomy risks and benefits, therefore it is important to talk with your doctor for proper guidance.