How Long to Recuperate From Vaginal Hysterectomy?

When you undergo a hysterectomy your uterus, also called your womb, is surgically removed. After your hysterectomy your menstrual periods are eliminated and you are no longer able to become pregnant. With a vaginal hysterectomy an incision is made in your vagina, your uterus is removed and the cut is closed with stitches. Recuperation from your vaginal hysterectomy is faster, according to Medline Plus, than other procedures like an abdominal hysterectomy, which is performed via an incision in your lower abdomen.

Immediately after Surgery

• After surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery room where you’ll stay for approximately three hours, according to the Mayo Clinic. During your one- to three-day stay in the hospital, you’ll receive intravenous pain medication and other medication to prevent infections. The hospital staff will encourage you to walk around as soon as you’re able. Walking will prohibit blood clots from developing in your legs. Also, you may have a catheter placed into your bladder to pass urine, according to Medline Plus.

At Home

• For several days after your surgery, you’ll need to wear sanitary pads because of bloody vaginal discharge, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your recuperation will take approximately three to four weeks. During this time, if your fallopian tubes and ovaries were removed in addition to your uterus, you may experience menopause shortly after your surgery. With menopause, you’ll feel symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. If this occurs, your doctor can prescribe medication to treat your menopause symptoms.

  Contact your doctor immediately if your develop symptoms like vomiting or nausea. You also need to immediately call your doctor if you experience bleeding that is heavier than a menstrual period or your pain becomes worse.

Additional Recovery Time

• Although recuperation time takes three to four weeks, complete recovery can take up to two months, so to help your recuperation, it’s best to obtain plenty of rest. Also, do not lift more than 20 pounds or have sexual intercourse for approximately six weeks after your surgery. Resuming normal activities before you’re completely healed can hinder recovery. After six weeks or your doctor’s recommendation, you can resume normal activities.

Emotional Recovery

• Your emotional health after your vaginal hysterectomy depends on your outlook. For instance, you may enjoy life more because of no longer dealing with conditions like uterine fibroids. However, if you feel sadness, grief or loss after your vaginal hysterectomy because you can no longer have children, you should contact your doctor.