Hysterectomy



Definition

Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the uterus. In a total hysterectomy, the uterus and cervix are removed. In some cases, the fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed along with the uterus, which is a hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy . In a subtotal hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed. In a radical hysterectomy, the uterus, cervix, ovaries, oviducts, lymph nodes, and lymph channels are removed. The type of hysterectomy performed depends on the reason for the procedure. In all cases, menstruation permanently stops and a woman loses the ability to bear children.

Purpose

The most frequent reason for hysterectomy in American women is to remove fibroid tumors, accounting for 30% of these surgeries. Fibroid tumors are non-cancerous (benign) growths in the uterus that can cause pelvic, low back pain, and heavy or lengthy menstrual periods. They occur in 30–40% of women over age 40, and are three times more likely to be present in African-American women than in Caucasian women. Fibroids do not need to be removed unless they are causing symptoms that interfere with a woman's normal activities.

Treatment of endometriosis is the reason for 20% of hysterectomies. The endometrium is the lining of the uterus. Endometriosis occurs when the cells from the endometrium begin growing outside the uterus. The outlying endometrial cells respond to the hormones that control the menstrual cycle, bleeding each month the way the lining of the uterus does. This causes irritation of the surrounding tissue, leading to pain and scarring.

Twenty percent of hysterectomies are done because of heavy or abnormal vaginal bleeding that cannot be linked to any specific cause and cannot be controlled by other means. Another 20% are performed to treat prolapsed uterus, pelvic inflammatory disease, or endometrial hyperplasia, a potentially pre-cancerous condition.

About 10% of hysterectomies are performed to treat cancer of the cervix, ovaries, or uterus. Women with cancer in one or more of these organs almost always have the organ(s) removed as part of their cancer treatment.


Demographics

Hysterectomy is the second most common operation performed on women in the United States. About 556,000 of these surgeries are done annually. By age 60, approximately one out of every three American women will have had a hysterectomy. It is estimated that 30% of hysterectomies are unnecessary.

The frequency with which hysterectomies are performed in the United States has been questioned in recent years. It has been suggested that a large number of hysterectomies are performed unnecessarily. The United States has the highest rate of hysterectomies of any country in the world. Also, the frequency of this surgery varies across different regions of the United States. Rates are highest in the South and Midwest, and are higher for African-American women. In recent years, although the number of hysterectomies performed has declined, the number of hysterectomies performed on younger women aged 30s and 40s is increasing, and 55% of all hysterectomies are performed on women ages 35–49.

In a hysterectomy, the reproductive organs are accessed through a lower abdominal incision or laparoscopically (A). Ligaments and supporting structures called pedicles connecting the uterus to surrounding organs are severed (B). Arteries to the uterus are severed (C). The uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are removed (D and E). (Illustration by GGS Inc.)
In a hysterectomy, the reproductive organs are accessed through a lower abdominal incision or laparoscopically (A). Ligaments and supporting structures called pedicles connecting the uterus to surrounding organs are severed (B). Arteries to the uterus are severed (C). The uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are removed (D and E). (
Illustration by GGS Inc.
)

Description

A hysterectomy is classified according to what structures are removed during the procedure and what method is used to remove them.


Total hysterectomy

A total hysterectomy, sometimes called a simple hysterectomy, removes the entire uterus and the cervix. The ovaries are not removed and continue to secrete hormones. Total hysterectomies are usually performed in the case of uterine and cervical cancer. This is the most common kind of hysterectomy.

In addition to a total hysterectomy, a procedure called a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is sometimes performed. This surgery removes the ovaries and the fallopian tubes. Removal of the ovaries eliminates the main source of the hormone estrogen, so menopause occurs immediately. Removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes is performed in about one-third of hysterectomy operations, often to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.


Subtotal hysterectomy

If the reason for the hysterectomy is to remove uterine fibroids, treat abnormal bleeding, or relieve pelvic pain, it may be possible to remove only the uterus and leave the cervix. This procedure is called a subtotal hysterectomy (or partial hysterectomy), and removes the least amount of tissue. The opening to the cervix is left in place. Some women believe that leaving the cervix intact aids in their achieving sexual satisfaction. This procedure, which used to be rare, is now performed more frequently.

Subtotal hysterectomy is easier to perform than a total hysterectomy, but leaves a woman at risk for cervical cancer. She will still need to get yearly Pap smears.


Radical hysterectomy

Radical hysterectomies are performed on women with cervical cancer or endometrial cancer that has spread to the cervix. A radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix, above part of the vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, lymph nodes, lymph channels, and tissue in the pelvic cavity that surrounds the cervix. This type of hysterectomy removes the most tissue and requires the longest hospital stay and a longer recovery period.

Methods of hysterectomy

There are two ways that hysterectomies can be performed. The choice of method depends on the type of hysterectomy, the doctor's experience, and the reason for the hysterectomy.

ABDOMINAL HYSTERECTOMY. About 75% of hysterectomies performed in the United States are abdominal hysterectomies. The surgeon makes a 4–6-in (10–15-cm) incision either horizontally across the pubic hair line from hip bone to hip bone or vertically from navel to pubic bone. Horizontal incisions leave a less noticeable scar, but vertical incisions give the surgeon a better view of the abdominal cavity. The blood vessels, fallopian tubes, and ligaments are cut away from the uterus, which is lifted out.

Abdominal hysterectomies take from one to three hours. The hospital stay is three to five days, and it takes four to eight weeks to return to normal activities.

The advantages of an abdominal hysterectomy are that the uterus can be removed even if a woman has internal scarring (adhesions) from previous surgery or her fibroids are large. The surgeon has a good view of the abdominal cavity and more room to work. Also, surgeons tend to have the most experience with this type of hysterectomy. The abdominal incision is more painful than with vaginal hysterectomy, and the recovery period is longer.

VAGINAL HYSTERECTOMY. With a vaginal hysterectomy, the surgeon makes an incision near the top of the vagina. The surgeon then reaches through this incision to cut and tie off the ligaments, blood vessels, and fallopian tubes. Once the uterus is cut free, it is removed through the vagina. The operation takes one to two hours. The hospital stay is usually one to three days, and the return to normal activities takes about four weeks.

The advantages of this procedure are that it leaves no visible scar and is less painful. The disadvantage is that it is more difficult for the surgeon to see the uterus and surrounding tissue. This makes complications more common. Large fibroids cannot be removed using this technique. It is very difficult to remove the ovaries during a vaginal hysterectomy, so this approach may not be possible if the ovaries are involved.

Vaginal hysterectomy can also be performed using a laparoscopic technique. With this surgery, a tube containing a tiny camera is inserted through an incision in the navel. This allows the surgeon to see the uterus on a video monitor. The surgeon then inserts two slender instruments through small incisions in the abdomen and uses them to cut and tie off the blood vessels, fallopian tubes, and ligaments. When the uterus is detached, it is removed though a small incision at the top of the vagina.

This technique, called laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy, allows surgeons to perform a vaginal hysterectomy that might otherwise be too difficult. The hospital stay is usually only one day. Recovery time is about two weeks. The disadvantage is that this operation is relatively new and requires great skill by the surgeon.

Any vaginal hysterectomy may have to be converted to an abdominal hysterectomy during surgery if complications develop.


Diagnosis/Preparation

Before surgery the doctor will order blood and urine tests. The woman may also meet with the anesthesiologist to evaluate any special conditions that might affect the administration of anesthesia. On the evening before the operation, the woman should eat a light dinner and then have nothing to eat or drink after midnight.


Aftercare

After surgery, a woman will feel some degree of discomfort; this is generally greatest in abdominal hysterectomies because of the incision. Hospital stays vary from about two days (laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy) to five or six days (abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy). During the hospital stay, the doctor will probably order more blood tests.

Return to normal activities such as driving and working takes anywhere from two to eight weeks, again depending on the type of surgery. Some women have emotional changes following a hysterectomy. Women who have had their ovaries removed will probably start hormone replacement therapy.


Risks

Hysterectomy is a relatively safe operation, although like all major surgery it carries risks. These include unanticipated reaction to anesthesia, internal bleeding, blood clots, damage to other organs such as the bladder, and post-surgery infection.

Other complications sometimes reported after a hysterectomy include changes in sex drive, weight gain, constipation, and pelvic pain. Hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause can occur if the ovaries are removed. Women who have both ovaries removed and who do not take estrogen replacement therapy run an increased risk for heart disease and osteoporosis (a condition that causes bones to be brittle). Women with a history of psychological and emotional problems before the hysterectomy are likely to experience psychological difficulties after the operation.

As in all major surgery, the health of the patient affects the risk of the operation. Women who have chronic heart or lung diseases, diabetes, or iron-deficiency anemia may not be good candidates for this operation. Heavy smoking, obesity, use of steroid drugs, and use of illicit drugs add to the surgical risk.


Normal results

Although there is some concern that hysterectomies may be performed unnecessarily, there are many conditions for which the operation improves a woman's quality of life. In the Maine Woman's Health Study, 71% of women who had hysterectomies to correct moderate or severe painful symptoms reported feeling better mentally, physically, and sexually after the operation.


Morbidity and mortality rates

The rate of complications differs by the type of hysterectomy performed. Abdominal hysterectomy is associated with a higher rate of complications (9.3%), while the overall complication rate for vaginal hysterectomy is 5.3%, and 3.6% for laparoscopic vaginal hysterectomy. The risk of death from hysterectomy is about one in every 1,000 women. The rates of some of the more commonly reported complications are:

Alternatives

Women for whom a hysterectomy is recommended should discuss possible alternatives with their doctor and consider getting a second opinion , since this is major surgery with life-changing implications. Whether an alternative is appropriate for any individual woman is a decision she and her doctor should make together. Some alternative procedures to hysterectomy include:

Resources

periodicals

Kovac, S. Robert. "Hysterectomy Outcomes in Patients with Similar Indications." Obstetrics & Gynecology 95, no. 6 (June 2000): 787–93.

organizations

American Cancer Society. 1599 Clifton Rd., NE, Atlanta, GA 30329-4251. (800) 227-2345. http://www.cancer.org .

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 409 12th St., SW, P.O. Box 96920, Washington, DC 20090-6920. http://www.acog.org .

National Cancer Institute. Building 31, Room 10A31, 31 Center Drive, MSC 2580, Bethesda, MD 20892-2580. (800) 422-6237. http://www.nci.nih.gov .

other

Bachmann, Gloria. "Hysterectomy." eMedicine. May 3, 2002 [cited March 13, 2003]. http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3315.htm .

Bren, Linda. "Alternatives to Hysterectomy: New Technologies, More Options." Food and Drug Administration. October 29, 2001 [cited March 13, 2003]. http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2001/601_tech.html .


Debra Gordon
Stephanie Dionne Sherk

WHO PERFORMS THE PROCEDURE AND WHERE IS IT PERFORMED?


Hysterectomies are usually performed under the strict conditions of a hospital operating room . The procedure is generally performed by a gynecologist, a medical doctor who has specialized in the areas of women's general health, pregnancy, labor and childbirth, prenatal testing, and genetics.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR




User Contributions:

1
Martha
I found this article very informative. One question I do have. My sister had a total hysterectomy on Feb. 6 of this year. She was in the hospital for 3 days. All went well according to her surgeon. What my sister is experiencing as of Feb 12 is cramping similar to having a menstruation along with the low back pain. Can you tell me if this is normal? and is to be expected following her surgery?
I would appreciate your reply. Thank you for your time.
Martha
2
nancy ardila
I want information about Case Study ABDOMINAL HYSTERECTOMY but about
CASE STUDY IN SURGERY:
1. Solutions Used?
2.Suture Name and Size in: PERITONEUM,FASCIA,SUBCUTANEOUS,SUBCUTICULAR SKIN
3. Drains?
4. Needele Name?
5. Needle Tape?
6. Medications required in surgery?
7. Amount used?

Thanks.
3
Lashelle
I found all this information was very useful. When I was about 10 my mother had a partial hysterectomy and I never knew what it was but reading this info. helped me alot and I would like to thank you. This info also helped me on my research paper. Don't worry I gave you your credit.
4
Susan
I found the article to be very enlightening and easy for the regular person to read and understand. As I am now facing a medically necessary hysterectomy at age 36, this answered a lot of questions that I had.
Thank you so much for providing the information.
5
melanie
extremely informative. thank you, my sister is scheduled to have a hysterectomy for next year and i found reading this article very comforting and i will use the information i got from it to help my sister answer any questions she may have about her surgery.
6
Cheryl
I had a hysterectomy last August; aside from it feeling like I had a bowling ball on my tummy; I did have some discomfort like my chest was sore, and there was some redness at the site of the incision. I sailed through my procedure; came home two days later, now engaging in all my activities prior to the operation. I have returned to work part-time doing some special projects; I hope to land back to work soon.
7
Sue
I had a hysterectomy February 21, 2007. I opted to have my fallopian tubes and ovaries removed as I have had numerous abdominal surgeries in the past 6 years and didn't want to risk having to have yet another in coming years to complete the hysterectomy. This article is extremely helpful and I wish I would have found it before having my surgery. I probably was an exception to the "recovery" time though. I returned to work full-time (40+ hours a week) 10 days following surgery. I felt absolutely fabulous and didn't want to be sitting at home anymore. I honestly believe that if you set your mind to it, you can speed your recovery. I know so many women who have milked this surgery for too long and only caused themselves more harm. Getting up and moving around is the best cure! I do caution though about sexual intercourse. I waited 8 weeks, which proved to be not long enough. I would highly recommend waiting more like 10-12 weeks. Unfortunately, I suffered a tear and am now on antibiotics. It was just a small set-back in my recovery. Having a hysterectomy was by far the best choice for me and I am very pleased that I made that decision. Good luck ladies!
8
sweeney
i am concerned about a hysterctomy that i had i meant to ask my doctor about this and i will when i go back to see him in june i had fibroids removed and i think he kept my uteris in am i still going to have periods
9
amanda
is it possible to grow another uterus afer having a vaginal hysterectomy?
10
Beatriz
I had my hysterectomy last january 2nd and I feel great, althought I still have some precaution because I don't want to have tears in my surgery site. My doctor recommended to wait two months to have intercourse and I am waiting my husband is not happy but I want to recover totally. I dont work so I can take it easy but I have three boys 10 yrs and younger so sometimes is imposible to be totally rested, today I feel a little pain in my surgery site but nothing to worry about I think I just need some rest. i recommended to have it done since is the only procedure where the fibrioids don't grow back and i want them gone forever. I was considering having embolization but when my doctor told me they will grow back that change my mind and opted for hysterctomy
11
patty
I had a radical hysterectomy, i had ovarian cancer stage 1A. it it has being 4 years since my surgery and i have not had sex yet.
i am concern about the dryness, i am starting a new relationship and i do not how to handle it and how to disclose this to my new partner. i have stayed away from relationships because the fear, please help! I'm only 42 years old.
please advise... anyone?
12
Sue
Hi
I was wondering what types of blood tests do they run before a total hysterectomy....and why

Thanks
Sue G.
13
Mim
I think this article very informative. I had radical hysterectomy 3 weeks ago. Having some discomfort. I guess CA 125 may be the blood work for total and radical hysterectomy due to cancer issue?? I am 34, no kids.
14
BOBBIE DORRIS
I LIKED THIS ARTICLE. I HAD MY HYST. ON 5/13/08 ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO. AND I HAVE A LUMP ON BOTH SIDES OF MY INCISION. I HAD A HORIZONAL ABDOMINAL AND THESE KNOTS ARE ON EACH SIDE OF MY INCISION. IS THIS JUST WHERE I'M HEALING? AND THE ONE ON THE RIGHT STINGS AND HURTS AND THAT'S WHERE I HURT BEFORE I HAD IT I THOUGHTIT WAS MY OVARY.SO IS THIS NORMAL?
15
Tania
I am 33 years old and have been told I need a hysterectomy for medical reasons. Although the procedure itself doesn't worry me, My husband and I were wondering if it affects sex drive in women. We have a healthy sex life and I'm worried that this may change things.
This site is very informative and helped me a lot with everything else.
16
crystal
I am 31. I had my hysterectomy 2-6-09 lot of gas lot of bruising. I had stage 3-4 cervical cancer. In 04 alredy had right tube/ovary removed. now had to go totally all the way. my dr. has not mention hrt or ert yet. i only weigh 120lbs so will i gain weight if so how much? Im very sore cant walk very much do to gas pain and back pain. my surgery was laperscopic through the vagina no bleeding just gas pain. but should i worry about the hrt or ert or jsut take a daily vitamin. the article help wish i found it before my operation. thank you
17
Teresa
Hi, I live in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico

March 2, 2009 ---10 days ago I had a hysterectomy, I was diagnosed with having a large cyst that also infected one of my ovaries, I had really good hospital care. Stayed in hospital for two days, felt nausea after I left hospital, I have a soft diet, chicken, fruits and vegetables.The symptoms I have now: Mild discomfort from the incision, my tummy feels swollen, I feel gas, but not problem going to bathroom, I still fell the urge to go pee quite often, my doctor told me to wear a girdle for 6 weeks, not driving for at least two weeks, full rest for 4 weeks, I do walk around my house, get tired after I am up for a while.

My doctor told me that sex life after the hysterectomy is diferent for every woman, also told me not to intent to have sex for 6 weeks after the operation ( she also said some man have a problem waiting for woman to heal) My life and health is much more important than sex, or how my husband feels about waiting until I heal, don't let yours talk to you into engaging in sex if he respects your life and health he will take care of you and wait
like mine is.

I wanted to share this and hope the information is useful.
18
gita
want to get it done, but my husband won't let me. he wants a another baby and yet the funny thing is i haven't had sex since 13 august 2006, i been married on 15 june 206. almost 2 months i fell pregnant with my 1st. then no more sex in my life.
Will a menstrual cycle that is already in progress interfere with a scheduled surgical hysterectomy
I had my hysterctomy about 12 days ago. I was feeling some discomfort but not too bad up untill yesterday when I started spotting I was wondering if this is normal? If anyone can help I am so scared to ask my Dr. because I dont want to go back to the hospital. I have this thing of being kept away from home! By the way this article was very useful.

Thank you and God Bless
21
Maxine
I am in my 6th week post op from an abdominal hysterectomy. I am so distened and look like I am 5 months pregnant pain in rock hard abdomen and radiating into my back. My surgeon sent me for an abd and pelvic ultrasound as he said it did not look normal. I did not take pain med post up and bowels are working. What are some of the things it could be?
against my better judgement, me and my husband had some mild sex. Its only been about 2 weeks since i had my hysterectomy. I was told by the doctor that i shouldnt be sexually active for at least 5 weeks. I just want to know, if we are careful and it doesnt hurt before, during or after, why cant we have sex?
I have had a full hysterectomy 27th october, for the first week I had no bleeding, however I had unknown to me an after operaton infection "collection?" This infection was treated and I started to bleed a redish brown liquid that had an offensive smell , this all started around the 4th November, it is now the 4th december and the smell stopped aprox two weeks ago, however the bleeding although lighter has not stopped? Is this normal, the fibroid that was found at the time of the operation was the size of a medium banana and or a woman in her 5th month of pregnancy. Not sure if that helps? Also at the time of the operation I had a blood count of 6 so therefore I am recovering from a low blood count due to severe bleeding from the fibroid, this was for a period of three years not sure if this affects why I am still bleeding? Kind Regards Irene
Thank you so much for this article.
I am contemplating going through with a hysterectomy, but am concerned with the fact that Women with pre=existing psychological problems (mine being chronic anxiety and depression disorder) can be a risk for more of these problems, or that it could be difficult recovering psychologically from this.
Would leaving the ovaries in tact illiminate this possible problem? Could you please explain more. I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you
Theresa in Vancouver Canada
25
Nan Doshi
I am scheduled for total hysterectomy. My husband is completely refusing to take care of me after surgery. I dont have anybody else to take care of me. Do you think I should cancel the surgery?
Actually I read your article totally,I have some queries regarding subtotal hysterectomy.
My Mom has gone through this subtotal hysterectomy surgery (through abdominal surgery)in 2001.After that she has gained some weight and faced some problems which generally occurred after surgery like tiredness, pain in joints, in bones.Now days(Jan 2010) she has facing a new problem of pain in fallopian tube due to some mis movement of body during work.After consulting with surgeon and getting his treatment, we came to know that her pain is decreased temporary and its side effect occur on her digestion system.Due to that we skip that pain killer antibiotic and firstly concentrate on recovery of digestion.But now it is too much difficult for her to tolerate that pain.So we are planning to go for fallopian tube surgery.
Should we go for that?
Or it will make another problem?
Please tell me an effective solution on this, causes of it and if surgery then what it effects?
Thank You!Waiting for your reply.
27
aliya
your article is v useful .my question is that what is the normal range of estrogen for young subtotal hysterectomy woman?
This is a good article but in my opinion doesn't focus on the problems and when to get a second opinion.

My mother was scared to go in after her doctor told her this would be her best option to get her change of life (she hadn't reached menopause and doctor probably just wanted to make money off of her). Anyhow, she went in and was in terrible pain. Her daily calls to the doctor's office turned out to be a nuisance for them as they would tell her "here take more of these pain meds" into a "If its really that bad go to ER". She went to ER 4 days after being released from surgery. They treated her for heart probs and let her go.
Still excrutiating pain... it took them 31 days where she could no longer carry on and went back to ER. There one brilliant doctor decided she was septic. they made a mistake in the surgery.

My mother died after 9 weeks battling to recover from this mistake (she'd be alive today if the hospitals and doctors reexamined her and caught their mistake before it was in her blood and also if they didnt overmedicate her after she survived the big surgery.

We lost my mother on Christmas... what a way to go. I watched her bleed to death in those 9 weeks (literally the blood would run down from the bed from her colon). The worst way to watch your beautiful mother suffer.

If you dont need the surgery, dont do it. If you do it, get a second opinion. Too many male doctors think women over react (hysteria... hence the name) and ignore true real complaints.

If you want to know who did this:

Dr. Melnick (Whittier, CA)
Dr. Maguire (Brea, CA)
St. Jude Hospital (Fullerton, CA)

Beware. Email me if you want further info. But dont go through the pain our family has... its tragic and unnecessary. It changed my life for good.
29
Dolores
I am a 58 yr. old woman, who has SLE (Lupus), and have had two minor strokes, which I take coumadin to control the bleeding. I have a prolapsed cervix, and wear a ring to keep it inserted into the vagina. I do have lower back pains, which is excruciating. I would like to get a hysterectomy done; I need to feel more comfortable overall (sexually in particular). Whenever a man is interested, I feel my life is at a holt. I do not have insurance and need to know what is the cost, or is there a clinic that would accept what you can afford to pay. My doctor has indicaton I should have a hysterectomy, but said I can have sex without it. Thank you.
I had my hysterectomy yesterday and although I have had previous surgeries with high pain tolerance, nothing is working on my pain. I have tried dilodid, morphine, vercet. I am still having unbearable pain but the doctor says this is normal, this type of pain is not normal for me, and I was promised if I had unbearable pain the hospital would treat it, but they are not helping me. They are offering comfort but took out all pain pumps because none were working and started me on oral percocet. I can not stand up straight and am bleeding a lot. any suggestions?
I had hysterectomy 12 months ago due to fibroids. Just before I had it I developed pains in my bones and joints. This pain has continued till now, get worse especially on cold days and I'm worried. Can you advise if this is related to the condition or operation. Are there any supplements you can recommend?
I had a hysterectomy in 2000 and had some granulation tissue removed several months later. In 2002 I had both overies removed for menopausal issues. Recently I seem to have some leakage clear not foul smelling coming from either bladder or vagina not sure originally thought to be urine but now I am not so sure as there is no odour.Do issues arise like this such a long time after the op.
Jane,I am very sorry about the loss of your dear mother,these doctors do not care about anyone,its the money,your mother should have had the care that she deserved ,bless her heart,these Dr should not be able to be a Doctor anylonger. again I am very sorry ,the pain you had to o through and now having to live with it,I had lost my mother a year again,and had went through alot with her Dr,I only try thinking of mom with the dear lord ,with her love ones,it hurts one day we will be with them all.
I had Breast cancer at age 33. I underwent a modified radical mastectomy of the right & left breast. I am 60 now and thank God have had no re acurriance with no chemo, radiation or tomoxiphilyn.
Now at 60 I test posstivr to the BRAC 2. I guess my question is I went thru menopause at 50 with no hormone replacement and am having no problems with hot flashes . I am now 60 and have just had a histerictomy due to the high risk of ovation cancer. Of course I had everything removed. If I had no hot flashes before the surgry should I expect to have them now? So far it has been a week and I feel great! What should I expect?
Thanks,
Jane
I had a hysterectomy in March of 2011 and also had ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and lymph nodes removed. I still have some pain when urinating. The Dr. said this is normal. Is it ? Also, what studies are done on women who have had this done at 5 yrs., 10 yrs. and longer ? I would like to know if these women have had any other health issues related to this surgery. I had a DaVinci procedure and have numbness still in my left leg which is nerve damage that a Dr. told me would heal but will take some time since nerves take a long time to heal. I had cancer (endometrial) and was stage 1A. I luckily didn't need radiation or chemo but am wondering also, if any other tissue remains still inside and how can it be detected when one has a vaginal cuff ? These are questions that aren't found anyplace that I can see. Any info regarding my questions is appreciated. I don't recommmend any woman have this done unless you have cancer. I feel too many are done today unnecessarily but with that being written, I had no choice. I also got 3 opinions, I'd like to add. I recommend any other women do this as well. It's your body..don't be pressured into life-changing events...and it is one. Sex is also something not discussed much. I asked many questions about it and was not told correct answers. If your uterus is gone and other parts, you will not have the intense orgasms you are used to...clitoral yes, but internal, deep vaginal orgasms are gone after this. I want women to know that. They should be told this and are not. I hope I didn't scare anyone but it should be known and no where could I find that info. Thanks for this forum. :) Good luck ladies.
I am 1 week post op, I had the laproscopic hysterectomy for fibriod rumors, endometroisis and abnormal/heavy periods I stayed over night in the hospital and went home Tuesday morning. Monday and Tuesday were great, I told everyone "this is easy" but Wednesday came and it was rough. I had a great deal of pain, nausea, difficulty standing straight and gas. By Saturday I felt better and continue to feel better everyday. I am still have a moderate amount of pain at one of my incision sites. I took all last week off from work and return to office type duties this week from home I am now just taking advil for my discomfort and that seems to be managing my pain pretty well. I have had various other options for treatment over the past 13 years such as cyst removed, birth control bills to help with heavy periods, and ablation but finally decided I'm just tired of dealing with these issues. I had great care at the hospital and at home. I'm confident I made the right decision for me.
37
LaTanya
I had my laproscopic hysterectomy on November 2011. I was doing well no complications. After my post op appointment on December 15 a week later I began to experience horrible itching red swollen skin at my surgical sites. Around a week later my navel section began to develop blisters and leakage. I always washed and sanitized myself to prevent infection. I am going to the doctor in the am. Have anyone experienced this before. Oh by the way this is my first surgical procedure.
38
veronica brooks
I had a hysterectomy done in 2000, then had my ovaries taken out november 2010, my right ovary had ruptured in me and I did not know, I started to take the hormonal treatment, I stopped taking them since last August 2011, in not taking it what happens to me.
39
aretha
I had a hysterectomy which was done on Dec 8 2011 i had my uterus removed,and now im having really bad abdominal pain and i have been having pain in my vagina area
I have read that in a partial hysterectomy where the ovaries and fallopian tubes are left in place, the eggs can continue for a period of time to drop into the pelvic cavity and are absorbed by the body. I am curious as a therapist that does visceral manipulation/manual therapy about other structures. I am wondering what happens to the suspensory ligament of the ovary (lumboovarian ligament), the ovarian ligament (what attaches the ovary to the uterus)? I am assuming that the broad ligament, round ligament and sacrouterine ligament are removed. I am also curious about what are the possibilities of scar tissue after this procedure?
41
dainia
i jad first romance and taken penis to vegina and my vegina is paining a lot how do i get rid of that..?
Hi, like Suzy (no.35) I was diagnosed with Endometrial Cancer (stage 1 - I am blessed hadnt progressed further) July 2011, opertion performed in September 2011 - total hysterectomy they removed all expect the lymph nodes. I also would like to know if anyone can tell me, I have to go every three months for the next two years etc etc, what was explained to me by the gyno/oncology staff was to make sure the some cancer cells did not go to other organs. The doctor perform a path smear of the vaginal volt. "What I am wanting know is how does this one test can confirm that the cancer cells haven't gone any where else".
43
Debbie
I was 42 when i had a radical hysterectomy the Doctor took every thing after about three months i felt great in every way mood,sex drive was that of when i was 20 years no sight effects nothing .Now i am 61 years old and still going strong even in the sex department .But for the last three weeks almost every night i wake up in a puddle of sweat on my chest and running down my neck and into my hair,am i having memopause symtoms now? and no i am not taking estrogin i did take estrogin for about a year and a half but nothing since then.I wondering if i could be going through menpause now?
44
Diane
I had a partial hysterectomy due to fibroid tumors. Heavy bleeding un controllable surgery was very needed. It was supposed to take 3 hours tops but ended up being 5 1/2 hours. Doctor said the uterus was too big to come out the vaginia so she had to cut it into smaller pieces to pull it out. When I was taken to my room after I kept asking if the bed was heated because my body was so hot. Then I noticed when I went to the bathroom and looked in the mirror that my face had darkened. I had darkened spots on my nose and above my lip and part of my cheek. After questioning this with my doctor she sent me to a dermotologist and she said that this happens to women of color sometimes. And showed me pamphlets of women that this has happened to. I told her ok maybe so but in my case it happened overnight it could not be the same situation as the women in the pamphlet. They kept insisting it was. Now I have a darkened upper lip. And spots on my nose and cheek. And I have to accept this.

Thanks,
Diane
45
Kathy
I had a hysterectomy done 3 weeks ago, having my uterus, tubes, and ovaries removed due to several fibroid tumors. Since the surgery, often when I stand, turn the wrong way, etc. I get severe pain and a burning sensation in the area an ovary use to be, immediately followed by a hot flash. Why is this?
46
Bad
I am 74 years old and I had to have my bladder suspended because it felt like it was fallen out of my body then the doctors decided that I needed a full hysterectomy as well because they said my insides were fallen all together so now I have been feeling very sick ever since the procedure my belly button is red and ther some crusty drainage coming from that area I'm allergic to silver penicillin and sulfa does this sound normal for these procedures and do you think I need to go to the hospital
47
amy
HI,
I HAVE ADOUBT ABOUT THE VAGINAL HISTERECTOMY.MY MOTHER (63YR)IS ADMITTED IN HOSPITAL FOR THE SURGERY.THE DOCTOR TOLD HER UTEREUS ALMOST OUT SIDE THE BODY.SO VAGINAL SURGERY IS BETTER FOR HER.DUE TO THIS PROLAPS THE UTEREUS GOT INFECTED SO NEED 5 DAYS BEFORE SURGERY TO CLEAN IT.SHE IS SO WEAK WITH THIS DISEASE.IS THERE ANY RISK FACTOR IN THIS SURGERY?SHE HAS SOME PSCYCHOLOGICAL PROBLEM ALSO.OVER TENSION AND ANXIETY.IS IT WILL AFFECT HER DURING SURGERY?PLEASE ANSWER ME SOON.BECAUSE THE SURGERY IS ON 8 AUGUEST 2013.
48
Bellefit
Really nice One all the information really good and valuable. its good thanks for given such a amazing topic
49
bre
I had my uturus taken out in 09 I just had my overys taken out 12 days ago. Mg husband and I have been having sex for 3 days and I feel fine my belly is sore around my belly button were they cut me. So if I feel fine why do they say to wait for six weeks?
50
rosana
Hi

Please help me. I have done my hysterectomy in 2009 November and now I have started bleeding, what can be the couse of this?
51
acs
My wife had fibroid and having excess bleeding during mains. the doctor advised for surgery and removal of uterus and it was done in year 2000. for few year every thing was alright but since last 5 year her vagina has dried badly and she feel pain in intercourse and sometime tinching pain inside. we use water based jell also but pain in sex is always felt. advise for remedy.
52
Donetta
One week since my total hysterectomy. I've been in pain for years. Fibroids, cysts. Last 2 months prior to surgery my pain was unbearable every two weeks I could not work because of my pain. I was so nervous about the surgery and went back in forth in my mind about having ovaries removed, uterus, cervix. Last conclusion before I went into surgery was leaving it up to my doc about keeping ovaries. When waking I was told the disc took everything. I feel sad about this decision. Not sure if there was even a option to keep anything. One week since surgery. Single mom, 50
If I had hytsceeecomy and clip on funeral ligament so are there's suppose leave clip on I have ovaries on everything else is remove and one clip below abdominal and other top of belly is that normal and its been bothering pain what am I suppose to do?
54
Robbin
my 13 year old daughter is depressed because she is scared about her period, she tried to kill herself. Should she get the surgery ?
I am 45 on 8/2014 I had a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery. 6/15 I had a radical hysterectomy. I did not have chemo or radiation. However am concerned about my long term. I have heard doing radiation and chemo as a preventive measure. Thoughts
56
Tamika williams
My sister is experiencing bleeding and pain 6 days post op from abdominal hysterectomy and passing huge blood clots
57
Rachel Searles
I had a complete hysterectomy 3 and a half months ago. A Large muciliganous benign ovarian tumor was also removed. Vertical incision from Pubic bone through and above belly button. I am still distended and sore around belly button. I will get a CAT scan and do blood work. I can't seem to do anything without causing more pain in belly button area. What is up? Sincerely, Rachel
I had a partial hysterectomy 8 Sep 2015 due to enlarged and multiple fibroids. The pain started off dull a few years back which i believe i started getting when i was on the Depo shot (never do this form of birthcontrol) and Mirena prior to that. I never had fibroids before these two contraceptives. I wasn't informed to have a binder which is basically a wrap you wear around your abdomen to assist in recovery and hold things in place as it literally feels as if there's a void when sitting and standing. Secondly, bending over, walking, standing, sitting, getting up, etc is all extremely difficult for the first week. I'm on day 7 of recovery and have my post op tomorrow. I have lower back pain, tenderness where the 3 incisions are and mild to moderate cramps to include extreme gas. Constipation is horrible after surgery so ensure you get a stool softner or a mild laxative our else you'll feel the discomfort by day 3 after surgery. I started driving 4 days after surgery so it all depends on the person. I'm not completely healed of course but i try to not make sudden movements while driving and it seems to be bearable. I don't know what to expect for the future and had a scare 3days post surgery where i felt the exact same pain from what i thought was fibroids in the areas i had pain before surgery. Now I'm thinking what else can it be so ill be addressing tomorrow at my appointment. Ugh, can't wait to get to my new normal whatever that is.
59
Cindy R Victor
I've had a Subtotal Vaginal Hyster on 1999 .But since then I've not had a Pap smear. My youngest Sister died @ 22 from Ovarian Cancer..I've told my Dr but she said That since I have no uterus She Can't give me 1..what should I do??
60
maria
I had my uterus removed last year. Since them I had numerous cysts on my overies and multiple surgeries to remove them. As result I already lost 1 overy. Now I have only 1 overy left. Every few months I get a cyst. I had one burst last week. My doctor is giving me birth control pills but that doesnt stop the cysts.I'm contemplating removal of my last overy but I'm only 37. Am I going to have to do hormonal therapy after the surgery? Does hormonal therapy have a lot of side effects?
It's been one year since my hysterectomy I'm trying to understand why is my stomach still tender at the bottom and I have numbness in my pelvic area I'm told that being that I had 9 fibroid cyst
62
Kim
Hi I had my Vaginal Hysterectomy quite a while ago and I am a new person since then it was great. I have not had sex since as my husband and i have split now i want another relationship but i have got quite bad scar tissue which is quite painful and the surgeon that operated on me said there is nothing that can be done. can anyone tell me if there is something that can be done.
63
GULSHAN R C
Practical questions are asked but the answer along with the questions will be more informative.
64
angie
I am having an hysterectomy in about 12 days. Which I am so happy about, I am hoping that I don't have this horrible pain anymore after my uterus is out. This article is awesome. Well explained of what I will be going through or what I should expect afterwards. I have a silly question, I have had 2 C sections so they will cut where my c sections were done for my surgery. Would my doctor have a problem if I ask to cut off some of my loose skin on my belly?
65
MARIE
I TO HAD A TOTAL HYSTERECTOMY WITH THE FALLOPIAN TUBES AND BOTH OVARIES REMOVED. HAD RELATIONS WITH MY HUSBAND AND BOTH OF US WERE ON FIRE DOWN THERE. I CALLED MY OB-GYN AND HE TOLD ME THAT MY HUSBAND MUST HAVE A SORE ON HIS PENIS. A FOLLOW UP APPT. WITH THE SURGEON REVEALED THAT WITHOUT ESTROGEN THAT BURNING PAIN WOULD ALWAYS OCCUR. THERE ARE RISKS WITH ESTROGEN AND I SAID WELL I GUESS WE WILL USE A CONDOM AND THE DOCTOR LAUGHED AND SAID THAT IS NOT GOING TO HELP. SO I GUESS MY POST IS ABOUT THE FACT THAT NONE OF THIS IS MENTIONED TO A PATIENT. TWO YEARS AND AFRAID TO HAVE SEX AND WIND UP CALLING IN THE FIREDEPARTMENT TO PUT OUT THE FIRE!
I Was done total histroctame operation last month 23 then I have a some pain in my abodaminal and when iam recovery pls give The answer
67
Anjanette
I had a full Hysterectomy due to me having endometrial cancer 12 years ago. But before that I had my tubes clamped. Well I just found out my clamps are still on my tubes, shouldn't they have removed those clamps?.

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