A hysterectomy is a procedure where the uterus is removed. Sometimes the ovaries are removed as well. The procedure can be performed by removing the organs through the abdomen (abdominal hysterectomy) or through an incision in the vagina (vaginal hysterectomy). According to the Mayo Clinic, hysterectomies are amongst the most common medical procedures performed for women. After the procedure is performed, there may be aftereffects, such as the onset of menopause.
Physical Aftereffects
You will no longer have to worry about menstruation after a hysterectomy. You cannot get pregnant either. It may take up to two months before you will feel normal again, and you may be restricted from doing heavy lifting for at least six weeks. Many women fear that they may not be able to have sexual desire after a hysterectomy. According to the Mayo Clinic, for women who had a good sex life prior to a hysterectomy, these women were still able to maintain a good sex life. If you had a hysterectomy because of pain or heavy bleeding caused by a uterine issue, you may have an increase in sexual pleasure because of the relief from chronic pain.
Menopause
If you were premenopausal prior to your hysterectomy, and your ovaries were removed along with your uterus, menopause will begin after the hysterectomy. If you had a hysterectomy but the ovaries were not removed, menopause may start at an earlier age for you. You may experience vaginal dryness and hot flashes.
Emotional State
Some women who undergo a hysterectomy can experience a wide range of emotions, from sadness to a sense of well-being. You may even develop depression if a hysterectomy has impeded your chances of becoming pregnant. If depression becomes severe, seek out a support group to discuss what you are experiencing, or seek medical advice.
Possible Urinary Incontinence
In the article Hysterectomy Boosts Risk for Later Stress Urinary Incontinence Surgery, women who undergo a hysterectomy are at a risk of needing stress incontinence surgery. Stress incontinence (urine leakage) can occur due to the trauma of the uterus and cervix being removed form the pelvic supportive tissues. Nerves becoming damaged during a hysterectomy may then result in stress incontinence.
Risks of Hysterectomy
Having a hysterectomy can pose some potential risks such as blood loss or clots. Infection can also occur, but this is rare. According to the Mayo Clinic, risks increase in women who are obese, have diabetes, or high blood pressure. There is the potential risk of injury to pelvic and abdominal organs, such as the bladder or bowels. There is also a slight risk of being allergic to the anesthesia. Very rarely does death ever occur.
Tags: According Mayo, According Mayo Clinic, after hysterectomy, Mayo Clinic, good life, hysterectomy According, hysterectomy According Mayo