According to the Mayo Clinic, hysterectomy is one of the most frequently performed surgeries among women. Abdominal hysterectomy is an operation that removes your uterus through an incision in your lower abdomen. It may also include the removal of one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes. Following a one- to five-day hospital stay, you must allow for an extended period of recovery at home.
Post-Operation Recovery
Immediately following an abdominal hysterectomy, you will be given pain medicine both intravenously and by mouth. You may also have a catheter inserted into your bladder for urination up to two days after the operation. You will be encouraged to get out of bed and move around as soon as possible to prevent blood clots from developing in your legs. You will be able to resume a regular diet once your bowels start working again.
At-Home Recovery
It may take six to eight weeks to completely recover from an abdominal hysterectomy. You will need to wear sanitary pads for several days for vaginal bleeding and discharge. The incision in your abdomen will slowly but surely heal, but there will be permanent scarring. Make arrangements for assistance at home if you think you may need a helping hand.
Don't Over Do It
During your recovery period, it's important to follow any restrictions your doctor may have ordered and get a lot of rest. It won't be long before you will be able to resume your normal routine and activities. In the meantime, don't do any heavy lifting for a full six weeks following the operation.
Sexual Activity
You should refrain from engaging in sexual activity for six weeks after you undergo an abdominal hysterectomy. Some women are concerned that their sexual function will wither once their uterus is removed.
The Mayo Clinic says the issue of sex after a hysterectomy has been extensively researched, and women with a good sex life prior to a hysterectomy are able to sustain it afterward.
Early Menopause
A woman who is premenopausal will be thrust into menopause following a hysterectomy if she had her ovaries removed during the procedure. You can talk to your doctor about treating possible hot flashes and vaginal dryness that often occur in menopause. Your doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy.
Emotional Let Down
Some women may experience a sense of loss following a hysterectomy because the uterus is so connected to being female.
Younger women who have a hysterectomy because of gynecological cancer may become depressed since they will no longer be able to get pregnant.
Sense of Relief
As you recover from a hysterectomy, you are relieved to discover that the symptoms that may have led to the need for the operation in the first place are gone. You will enjoy a sense of well-being and a chance to get on with a higher quality of life.
