What Is A Hysterectomy?

We speak with Dr Chris Hardwick, consultant gynaecologist at Ross Hall Hospital, about having a hysterectomy. For people living with chronic pain, heavy bleeding, and other debilitating symptoms, a hysterectomy can offer a life-changing relief. Find out more about this surgery and how it could benefit you. Links: For more information on having a hysterectomy, please visit: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/treatments/hysterectomy https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/treatments/hysterectomy-vaginal To find a consultant near you, visit: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/find-an-appointment Chapters: 00:28 – 00:51 - What is a hysterectomy? 00:51 – 02:25 - Why might you need a hysterectomy? 02:25 – 05:05 - What are the different types of hysterectomy? 05:05 – 05:45 - What is the recovery period? 05:45 – 06:08 – When can I return home after surgery? 06:08 – 06:21 – When can I return to work? 06:21 – 06:27 – When can I drive? 06:27 – 06:43 - What are the side effects of surgery? 06:43 – 07:29 - When can I have sex again? Why might you need a hysterectomy? There are several gynaeoclogical conditions that can be treated through a hysterectomy, including endometrios adenomyosis, uterine fibroids and cancer of the womb, ovaries, and cervix. Your treatment will depend on the type of cancer you have, how advanced it is, and your overall health. Other options before hysterectomy include chemotherapy and radiation. What are the different types of hysterectomy? There are three main types of hysterectomy operation: • Vaginal hysterectomy • Laparoscopic hysterectomy • Abdominal hysterectomy Which type you have will depend on various factors, from your age and weight to the reasons you are having the operation. What happens during a vaginal hysterectomy? During the operation, your consultant will remove your womb and cervix through an incision made at the top of your vagina. Specialist instruments will then be inserted into your vagina to detach the womb from the ligaments that hold it there. After your consultant has removed your womb and cervix, they will close the incision at the top of your vagina with stitches. The procedure usually takes around one to two hours to perform and is performed with general anaesthetic, which means you will not be awake during the operation and you won't feel pain. What happens during a laparoscopic hysterectomy? A total laparoscopic hysterectomy typically takes one to three hours. It is performed under general anaesthetic. Your consultant will begin the surgery by making two or three small incisions across your tummy. They will then insert a laparoscope. The laparoscope is connected to a monitor that displays images of inside your reproductive system, so your consultant can see clearly as they perform the procedure. Your consultant will remove your womb and cervix using specialist instruments inserted through the laparoscope. Next, your consultant will close the incisions using either specialist glue or staples. Dressing will be applied to your incisions to protect them from becoming infected. What is the recovery period? This varies from person to person and depends on the type of hysterectomy you have. When you wake up following surgery, you will experience some pain and discomfort across your tummy and pelvic area. This is normal and you will be offered painkillers to reduce the pain. When you wake up, you will have dressings placed over your wounds to protect them, and a catheter, which is a small tube that drains urine from your bladder into a plastic collection bag. You will be able to return home between one and four days after your operation. It usually takes around six to eight weeks to fully recover. Rest as much as possible and avoid heavy lifting and high-impact sport. Try brisk walks and gentle swimming for exercise but be gentle with yourself as you recover. If your job does not involve manual work or heavy lifting, it may be possible to return to work after four to eight weeks. Your consultant will be able to offer tailored advice on how quickly you will be able to return to work. Do not drive until you can comfortably wear a seatbelt and safely perform an emergency stop. This can be anything from three to eight weeks after surgery. You may be recommended hormone replacement therapy after your operation to combat these symptoms. This can be given in the form of an implant, injections, or tablets. Consultant details: Dr Chris Hardwick is a consultant gynaecologist at Ross Hall hospital. Learn more about his expertise: To see how Ross Hall Hospital can help you, visit: https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/hospitals/ross-hall-hospital If you have any of the symptoms outlined in this video, seek professional medical help as soon as possible. Do you want to hear more about other gynaecological conditions? Leave a comment below and we will plan future videos on suggested topics. #hysterectomyrecovery #womenshealthphysio