Recovering After Hysterectomy: What to Expect

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a condition requiring hysterectomy, learning about the procedure and what to expect can help make your experience and recovery an easier process to navigate. Once you and your doctor have determined an appropriate procedure, for example, you should openly discuss what to expect with post-surgery recovery.

Recovery after a hysterectomy, like recovery after any type of surgery, will vary from patient to patient. Recovery time is influenced by the type of surgery performed, the underlying condition being treated, and other unique factors, including a patient's physical health. Generally, more invasive approaches will require longer recoveries, but ultimately, women will heal at their own pace.

Although recoveries vary, there are general things you can expect after hysterectomy, regardless of the approach used. These include:

  • Hospital Stay – Before surgery, doctors should discuss what length of hospital stay may be required. For minimally invasive procedures, hospital stay should be shorter. In some cases, same-day discharge may also be an option.
  • A Period of Rest – Rest is essential after all surgical procedures, as well as in situations where the body needs to heal itself, such as your everyday cold. Doctors will nearly always place restrictions on physical activity after hysterectomy, including limitations on lifting, physical exercise, bathing or swimming, sex, and other activities.
  • Prevent Infection – Doctors should provide patients with information and instructions about post-surgical care, including care for the incision, to prevent infections.
  • Other concerns – Various procedures may entail unique concerns or circumstances. Surgeries that involve oophorectomies – the removal of the ovaries – will result in menopause. Women who undergo this procedure should speak with their doctor about what to expect in such a case.

Whatever the surgery may be, you should always follow your doctor's instructions and recommendations so as to avoid complications and heal properly. Your surgeon knows the details of your procedure, and can provide you with more accurate information regarding recovery time.

In many cases, a positive attitude and outlook can go a long way during the recovery phase. You can improve your outlook about hysterectomy by educating yourself, speaking with your doctor, seeking a second opinion, and preparing for your life after hysterectomy. At Hysterectomy.com, we provide the information and resources to help you achieve just that. For those living in New York and the Tri-State area – or those who wish to travel to New York – personalized help and support can also be found by meeting with world-renowned surgeon Dr. Tamer Seckin.

If you would like more information about hysterectomy or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Seckin, please call 888-885-8311.