What to know about a hysterectomy operation

The surgeon may remove the uterus alone, the cervix, or the fallopian tubes and ovaries as well, depending on the reason for surgery. Removing the ovaries causes an abrupt fall in ovarian hormones; keeping them may delay that change. Hysterectomy is used for conditions such as Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, Adenomyosis and some cancers. The route affects the incision, hospital stay and recovery, but every operation involves anaesthesia and healing inside the pelvis. You will not have periods or be able to carry a pregnancy after the uterus is removed.

At the pre-operative visit, discuss medicines, allergies, previous operations, anaemia and your preferred recovery support. Arrange transport and help with meals, children or household tasks. Follow advice about fasting and medicines. During recovery, short walks can support movement, while lifting, driving and sex usually wait until the team confirms healing. Attend follow-up even if the incision looks well, because internal tissues also need time to recover.

Contact the hospital for increasing pain, heavy or worsening vaginal bleeding, fever, vomiting, trouble passing urine, calf swelling or wound redness. Emergency symptoms include sudden breathlessness, chest pain, collapse or severe abdominal pain. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these occur.

Which route do you recommend and why? What will be removed? What restrictions apply at home? How will you manage pain, menopause symptoms and follow-up screening?