Hysterectomy & Oophorectomy Recovery

A hysterectomy surgically removes a woman's uterus, and sometimes the cervix and fallopian tubes. With an oophorectomy, the ovaries come out too. Hysterectomies are the most common surgery performed on U.S. women, second only to cesarean sections, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Hospital Stay

• After a hysterectomy/oophorectomy, a woman stays in the hospital two to three days, depending on the hospital and the type of surgery, reports MedlinePlus. For a vaginal hysterectomy with no complications, a woman might go home the next day.

Time Frame

• Recovery time varies based on the type of surgery. After an abdominal hysterectomy, it takes four to six weeks to recover, according to the National Institutes of Health. For a vaginal hysterectomy, it takes three to four weeks.

Restrictions

• After surgery, a woman should rest, avoiding heavy lifting, sexual intercourse, douching or tampon use for six weeks, advises the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Menopause

• After an oopherectomy, menopause begins immediately. Doctors typically prescribe hormone replacement for hot flashes, vaginal dryness and other menopause symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Expert Insight

• ACOG recommends patients walk around as soon as possible after surgery, but moderate pain and bleeding are common the first few days. Activities should be resumed slowly, and a doctor should be called about any fever, severe pain or bleeding.