Side Effects of a Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus and, in certain instances, other surrounding reproductive organs.
It's often considered as a last resort when less invasive treatments have been ineffective or are not an option for the following conditions:
Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths on the uterus that can cause severe discomfort and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Adenomyosis: A condition in which the inner lining of the uterus, or the endometrium, breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus. This can result in an enlarged uterus and painful, heavy periods. A hysterectomy, which involves the surgical removal of the uterus, can be used as a treatment option for adenomyosis.
Endometriosis: This is a condition where the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis can cause severe pain and heavy periods.
Chronic Pelvic Pain: A hysterectomy might be an option when all other treatments have failed to reduce or eliminate pelvic pain. This is usually a last resort after ruling out other surgical treatment options.
Physical Side Effects
After a hysterectomy, patients may experience various immediate postoperative effects. Pain management through medication is typically recommended by doctors, and it tends to improve with time. These immediate effects typically resolve within a few days or weeks following the surgery.
Cramping
Experiencing pain and discomfort after a hysterectomy is common but manageable.
The intensity may vary based on individual pain thresholds and the type of procedure. Abdominal hysterectomies, for example, may cause more post-operative pain compared to vaginal or laparoscopic surgeries.
Initially, pain arises from incision sites and surgery, but it's usually relieved with medication. As the body heals, pain should diminish.
Some doctors prescribe analgesics to block pain signals if it's severe, but over-the-counter medications can help with mild to moderate pain.
Nausea
General anesthesia, commonly used in hysterectomy, may cause side effects.
Although generally safe, it can result in temporary symptoms like nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, sore throat, shivering, sleepiness, and mild confusion.
It typically improves within a few hours but may continue for a day or two. Certain medications like painkillers can also contribute to nausea.
Individual health factors, such as age, weight, smoking status, and pre-existing conditions, can influence how you feel too.
Fatigue
Fatigue is common after major surgery like a hysterectomy. It's caused by the body's healing process, anesthesia effects, and surgery-related stress. Recovery phase fatigue can last for weeks. Rest is crucial along with plenty of water and short walks.
Changes in bowel habits
Changes in bowel habits are common after a hysterectomy. Your body adjusts to the post-surgery environment, which may cause constipation or diarrhea. Constipation can be a side effect of certain pain medications and can worsen due to reduced mobility during recovery. To promote regular bowel movements, increase fluid intake, include warm liquids, and eat high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Changes in diet or surgery-related stress can also affect bowel routine.
Start to add walks to your routine and report any persistent issues to your provider.
Changes to urine
Urinary changes can occur after a hysterectomy. Patients may experience differences in urinary frequency, the feeling of an incomplete bladder, involuntary urine leakage, or a sudden need to urinate. This could be temporary due to nerve disruption during surgery.
Some may also have temporary urinary incontinence, which typically resolves over time. Practicing pelvic floor exercises, like Kegel exercises, can strengthen the muscles supporting the uterus, bladder, and bowel, improving bladder control.
Managing symptoms can also involve drinking enough fluids and avoiding bladder irritants such as caffeine and alcohol.
Infection
Infection is a potential complication after a hysterectomy. Systemic infections may present with fever, chills, and malaise. If infection is suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary. Treatments usually involve antibiotics and additional procedures for severe cases or abscess formation. Following postoperative care instructions, including wound care and hygiene, helps reduce infection risk.
Menopause, if the ovaries are removed
Menopausal symptoms are common in women after a hysterectomy, especially if the ovaries are removed. These symptoms can vary and include hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Other symptoms can be sleep disturbances, weight gain, and decreased libido. Manage hot flashes by avoiding triggers, wearing layers, and keeping the room cool. Improve sleep with good habits like a regular schedule and a calming environment.
Changes to physical appearance
Some women may also experience physical appearance changes due to hormonal shifts post-surgery, such as weight gain.
Emotional side effects
Poor body image
A hysterectomy can greatly impact a woman's body image and self-perception.
This is closely tied to the societal association of fertility with womanhood, and the loss of fertility could lead to feelings of inadequacy or loss of femininity.
It's important to recognize that such emotions are normal and valid responses to this life change. Taking the first step towards effective coping involves acknowledging and addressing these feelings. Support groups, whether online or in-person, connect individuals with similar experiences, allowing for the sharing of stories and emotions.
Therapy or counseling can provide a safe space to express these emotions and develop coping strategies.
Changes to reproductive identity
Many women face challenges adjusting to changes in reproductive identity after a hysterectomy. These difficulties stem from societal expectations linking fertility to womanhood, intensifying the emotional toll of losing reproductive capability.
Feelings of loss, grief, or a perceived decline in femininity may arise.
Changes in sexual function
After a hysterectomy, some women may experience changes in sexual function. These can include discomfort or pain during intercourse, difficulty reaching orgasm, or a different overall sexual experience. These changes are mainly due to the physical effects of surgery and hormonal shifts, especially if the ovaries were removed.
Women may also experience the loss of libido or sexual desire. This can be caused by hormonal shifts and emotional effects from the surgery. Hormonal changes, especially if the ovaries were removed, can directly decrease sexual drive.
Avoid negative side effects with MIMIT Health's treatment.
We offer a safe and effective treatment called uterine fibroid embolization, which doesn't use general anesthesia.
Therefore, you're able to get back to your normal life a lot quicker.
Best part is that you get to go home just hours after the procedure.