What should you know about simple hysterectomy?

The womb is removed through an abdominal, vaginal, or keyhole approach. The method depends on the reason for surgery, the size and position of the womb, previous operations, and your general health. A simple procedure is different from a radical hysterectomy, which removes more surrounding tissue and is used for selected cancers.

After the womb is removed, you will no longer have periods and cannot carry a pregnancy. If both ovaries remain, they can continue making hormones, so menopause may not begin immediately because of the operation itself. A hysterectomy may be offered for heavy bleeding, fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, or some womb or cervical conditions.

Ask which organs will be removed, how the operation will be performed, and whether tissue will be sent for examination. Arrange practical help at home, follow instructions about medicines and eating before surgery, and tell the team about all medicines, allergies, and health conditions.

Recovery varies with the surgical route. You may have tiredness, lower abdominal discomfort, or light vaginal bleeding. Keep the wound clean as directed, walk gently when advised, and avoid lifting or vaginal intercourse until your surgical team says healing is sufficient. Attend the follow-up appointment even if recovery feels straightforward.

Contact your surgical team promptly for fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, a red or opening wound, repeated vomiting, difficulty passing urine, or a swollen painful leg. Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or sudden severe abdominal pain.

Ask: Why is hysterectomy being recommended? Will my cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes remain? Which route is suitable for me? How long might normal activities take to resume? What symptoms should trigger an urgent call?