• March 16, 2023

My Doctor Has Recommended a Hysterectomy. Now What?

So your health care provider has recommended that you get a hysterectomy.

Regardless of your age, health status, parental status, or other details, a hysterectomy is a major and irreversible procedure that may be necessary under the right circumstances. If you’re unsure of what to expect, let us share some important information about hysterectomies, including the symptoms that may lead you to the procedure, the procedure experience, and what to do post-op.

What Is a Hysterectomy, and Who Needs One?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus and cervix. One of the biggest effects of the procedure is that patients will no longer have a menstrual period and cannot conceive a child.

Some key information about a hysterectomy is that it can be a necessary treatment for many illnesses and conditions, including but not limited to endometriosis, heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding, uterine prolapse, cancer or precancer, and fibroids.

While hysterectomies are not limited to women of a certain age group, they’re more common for women aged 40 and above.

five women of various ages dressed in white shirts posing

Lifestyle Modifications Pre- and Post-Op

Lifestyle modifications are important before and after your surgical procedure at TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital. Among these changes, you should aim to reach a healthy weight pre-op, quit smoking, and discuss other health conditions and medications with your health care provider.

You may need to stop taking certain medications like blood thinners for a few weeks and follow a healthier diet as recommended by your physician. These lifestyle modifications are intended to improve your quality of life, recovery, and overall health in the long term.

Recovery and Healing After a Hysterectomy

Recovery time for an abdominal hysterectomy can range from six to eight weeks on average. With a vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy, the downtime is shorter.

You must focus on resting and avoid certain physically taxing activities such as lifting weights, bending over, engaging in sexual activity, and performing heavy-duty tasks. Eat well, stay hydrated, take all medications on time, and monitor your hormones during and after the recovery period.

No matter the seriousness of a surgical procedure, it helps to talk in depth with your gynecologist prior to making any decision. If you need a gynecologist, you can find the right one near you by visiting the TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital website. You can also learn more about the gynecology department at our surgical specialty center in Houston and view our gynecologists’ profiles near the bottom of the page. There, you’ll also find a link to each of their websites to set up an appointment directly with their office.

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