Vaginal Hysterectomy

Vaginal Hysterectomy

What is Vaginal Hysterectomy?

Vaginal Hysterectomy is a surgical removal of uterus through vagina. Your doctor will clinically evaluate you to decide whether you are suitable for vaginal hysterectomy.

Why is it done?

You will be recommended to undergo vaginal hysterectomy to treat the following conditions:

• Continuous heavy bleeding that does not get controlled by medicines or Dilatation and Curettage (D&C) or any other treatment.
• Endometriosis, is a gynaecological condition when the endometrium, which is the tissue that lines inside the uterus, grows outside the uterus.
• Fibroids, is a benign uterine tumor that can cause severe bleeding, pelvic pain or bladder pressure.
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Uterine prolapse, i.e. uterus descent into the vagina. It occurs when supporting ligaments and tissues in the pelvis weakens.
• Hysterectomy is needed if cancer is present in uterus, cervix, ovary etc. Your doctor may recommend you to undergo hysterectomy, if you have precancerous conditions.

What happens during the procedure?

Vaginal Hysterectomy is performed under general anaesthesia. A urinary catheter will be inserted to empty your bladder. Your surgeon will make an incision inside your vagina to access the uterus. With the help of long instruments, your surgeon will remove uterus through vaginal opening by detaching it from connecting tissues, blood vessels, upper vagina etc. Once surgery is over, incision site is closed.

How long will it take?

Vaginal Hysterectomy generally takes 1-3 hours, depending upon the reason you are being operated for.

What happens after the procedure?

Post-surgery, you will be given pain killers and encouraged to walk. Vaginal Hysterectomy is performed through your vagina, hence no visible scars. You will experience some vaginal bleeding for one or two weeks, which is normal and will stop gradually. Your hospital stay will be 2 or 3 days, depending upon your recovery. It will take approximately 6 weeks to fully recover and resume your routine activity.

Post-surgery, you will not have your menstrual periods before the surgery and you will not be able to conceive. If your ovaries were removed, menopause will start immediately and your doctor may prescribe you hormone therapy.

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FAQs

What are the benefits of Vaginal Hysterectomy?

• Less invasive
• No visible scar
• Shorter stay in the hospital
• Quicker recovery

How do I prepare for Vaginal Hysterectomy?

• You may be asked to undergo pre-operative to check whether you are fit for surgery.
• In case you are taking any medicine, please inform your doctor.
• You may be given a laxative to take the night before the surgery or an enema the morning of the surgery.
• The night before the procedure, you will be recommended to eat a light meal.
• Follow all pre-surgery instructions that your doctor gives you.

After a Vaginal Hysterectomy, how do I take care of myself at home?

• Take plenty of rest.
• Don’t lift any heavy object.
• Start with a short walk and gradually increase it.
• Ensure that you have someone to help you during your recovery.
• Wait for six weeks to resume your sexual activity or as advised by your doctor.

How will be my life after hysterectomy?

• You will feel relieved from the symptoms due to which you opted for surgery.
• You will not have menstrual periods again.
• You will not be able to conceive.
• You will experience menopause.
• Due to relief from symptoms, post hysterectomy you will have a better quality of life and improved sense of well-being.