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Bleeding After Complete Hysterectomy

A total hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the both the uterus and the cervix. A woman who has undergone a complete hysterectomy will stop menstruating and lose her ability to become pregnant. When bleeding occurs beyond the normal recovery time from a hysterectomy, it could be a sign of health issues that will require additional medical treatment.

  1. Post-surgical bleeding

    • It's perfectly normal to experience some light vaginal bleeding in the first four to six weeks following a hysterectomy as stitches heal and tissues mend. There may also be some intermittent spotting or a pink discharge.The use of sanitary pads will be needed for this temporary vaginal bleeding and discharge.

    Bleeding that occurs beyond recovery time

    • Post-hysterectomy bleeding can occur months or years after the procedure and may due to a number of factors, some of which are potentially serious and will require an evaluation and possible treatment by your physician.

    Fallopian tube prolapse

    • Fallopian tube prolapse (FTP) is a rare complication following both abdominal and vaginal hysterectomies. A biopsy can determine whether the condition is present. The vaginal removal of the prolapsed tube may be necessary.

    Endometriosis

    • One of the reasons a woman might elect to undergo a hysterectomy is endometriosis. This condition occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus develops in other areas of the body. Endometeriosis can be painful and cause irregular bleeding.

      When the cervix is removed, what's referred to as a vaginal cuff is created.This is where endometriosis can develop following a hysterectomy.

    Cancer

    • A total hysterectomy makes the chances of ovarian cancer very rare. But there is a slight risk of developing primary peritoneal cancer (cancer in the membrane which lines the inside of the abdomen), for which the symptoms and treatment are similar to those of ovarian cancer. It's not fully understood why the threat of peritoneal cancer continues to exist following a hysterectomy.

    Granulation tissue

    • Granulation tissue is a healing tissue that grows to help ward off infection following a hysterectomy. Occasionally granulation tissue grows too profusely.

    Atrophic vaginitis

    • Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina caused by low estrogen levels and severe irritation.

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