Why is this procedure done?
The uterus is a female organ where the baby grows during pregnancy. The uterus is also called the womb. The womb is located in the lower belly between the bladder and the rectum. Women have two ovaries. Ovaries are almond-shaped organs that make the eggs to make a baby. The ovaries also control your menstrual cycle. Women also have two fallopian tubes. The eggs travel down the tube to reach the womb. ‚
A hysterectomy is done to remove the uterus. Your cervix, which is the lower part of the womb that connects to the vagina may also be removed. Sometimes, the ovaries or tubes are also taken out. Talk with your doctor to be sure you understand what will be removed. ‚
You may need surgery for tumors, cysts, or cancer. You may also need surgery if you have had infection or pain for a long time. Sometimes, the womb is taken out if it drops into the vagina. The womb dropping into the vagina is called a uterine prolapse. Surgery may also be done for heavy bleeding. ‚
View OriginalView Original
View OriginalView Original
What will the results be?
You may have less pelvic pain, bleeding, or other signs. If your womb is taken out, you will not be able to have a baby. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some examples are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about all of your drugs.
- If you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an IV in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy. The drug will also help you stay pain free during the surgery.
- When you are asleep, the doctors put a tube in your mouth to help you breathe. You will have a tube in your bladder to drain urine.
- Your doctor will clean your belly and an antiseptic will be applied.
- Abdominal surgery:
- The doctor makes a cut on your lower belly.
- Your doctor will take out the uterus through the opening in your belly. Your ovaries or tubes may also be removed at this time.
- The cut site is closed with stitches or staples and covered with clean bandages.
- Laparoscopic surgery:
- The doctor will make 3 to 4 small cuts in your belly. A scope with a tiny camera is put through one of the small cuts to look at the uterus. Your doctor will put small surgical tools into the holes to do the procedure. To be able to view the site, gas will be put in the belly.
- The doctor will cut the uterus into small pieces that can be removed through the small cuts. The ovaries and tubes may also be taken out at this time.
- The cut sites are closed with stitches or staples and covered with clean bandages.
- The procedure will take 2 to 3 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room after the surgery. The staff will watch you closely. Your doctor may give you drugs for pain.
- You may have the tube in your bladder for a day or so.
- You may have to stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days.
What problems could happen?
- Infertility if the uterus was removed
- Infection
- Wound opening
- Bleeding
- Blood clots in your legs or lungs
- Injury to nearby organs
- Menopause
- Low mood
- Problem controlling urine
- Problems with sex
Where can I learn more?
The Hysterectomy Association ‚
http://www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚