Our services
Hysterectomy
Overview
Understanding when a hysterectomy is needed, your options and what recovery involves. A hysterectomy is not a surgery to undergo without careful thought, but there are times when it becomes necessary. At Minerva Women's Healthcare, we explain your options clearly, make every effort to preserve your uterus where possible, and treat you with respect and compassion. Call today for an appointment or request your visit online.
At a glance
- A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It is recommended only when other treatments have failed or are not suitable
- After a hysterectomy you will no longer have periods or be able to become pregnant
- The ovaries are often kept when possible, to avoid early menopause
- Minimally invasive approaches usually mean less pain, a shorter hospital stay and faster healing
- We will discuss all your options, and alternatives to surgery, before you decide
When is a hysterectomy needed?
We make every effort to preserve your uterus, but some conditions may eventually need a hysterectomy. They can cause significant pain and heavy bleeding that affect your daily life. When other treatments fail, a hysterectomy may be the best option for conditions such as:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine prolapse
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Adenomyosis
Cancer or precancerous changes of the uterus, cervix or ovaries are other common reasons for a hysterectomy.
Before recommending surgery, we will discuss alternatives such as medicines, hormonal treatments, procedures that preserve the uterus, and monitoring.
What types of hysterectomy are there?
The type depends on your condition:
Partial (subtotal) hysterectomy: The uterus is removed, but the cervix is left in place.
Total hysterectomy: The uterus and cervix are removed.
Hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries and tubes: Removal of the ovaries is called an oophorectomy, and removal of the tubes is a salpingectomy. Some women need this in addition to a hysterectomy, for example when cancer or a high risk of cancer is present.
Your ovaries make oestrogen and other hormones that benefit your overall health. Depending on your age and the reason for your surgery, your surgeon will try to keep your ovaries where possible to avoid surgically induced menopause. If your ovaries are removed before natural menopause, you will have menopausal symptoms, and we will talk to you about how to manage them.
How is a hysterectomy performed?
Abdominal (open) hysterectomy: The uterus is removed through a larger cut in the lower abdomen, passing through layers of skin, muscle and tissue. It is used for larger uterus or more complex conditions, and recovery is longer.
Vaginal hysterectomy: The uterus is detached from its supports and removed through the vagina, with no cut on the abdomen. This generally means less time in hospital, faster healing and a quicker recovery. Not everyone is suitable, depending on the structure of the pelvic organs and other factors.
Laparoscopic (keyhole) hysterectomy: A camera and instruments are placed through a few very small cuts in the abdomen, and the uterus is removed in sections or through the vagina. It usually means less pain and faster recovery than open surgery.
Your surgeon will recommend the approach that is safest and most effective for you.
What should I expect before surgery?
You will have an evaluation, including tests as needed, and the chance to ask questions and give your consent. Your surgeon will tell you about eating and drinking before surgery, and about adjusting any medicines. Arrange for help at home during your recovery.
What is recovery like?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery. After a minimally invasive hysterectomy, most women stay in hospital for a short time and return to light activity within a few weeks. After open surgery, recovery usually takes longer, often six to eight weeks. In general:
- Rest, and gradually increase your activity
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until your surgeon allows it
- Do not put anything in the vagina, including tampons and sex, until you are cleared
- Take pain medicines as prescribed
- Attend all follow-up visits
Contact us promptly if you have heavy bleeding, fever, severe or worsening pain, foul-smelling discharge, trouble passing urine, or swelling, redness or leg pain.
What are the risks?
Like any surgery, hysterectomy carries risks, including bleeding, infection, reactions to anaesthesia, blood clots and injury to nearby organs. We will explain these and how we reduce them before you decide.
Common questions
Will I go through menopause after a hysterectomy?
Not if your ovaries are kept. You will no longer have periods, but your ovaries continue to make hormones. If your ovaries are removed, menopause begins right away.
Can I still become pregnant after a hysterectomy?
No. A hysterectomy ends the ability to carry a pregnancy. Please discuss your plans with us before surgery.
Will a hysterectomy affect my sex life?
Most women return to normal sexual activity after recovery, and many find it improves once pain or heavy bleeding is gone. Talk to us about any concerns.
Do I still need Pap smears afterwards?
It depends on why you had the surgery and whether the cervix was removed. We will advise you.
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