What to expect from hysterectomy for adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is tissue from the uterine lining growing into the muscle of the uterus. Removing the uterus removes the area affected by adenomyosis, so menstrual periods stop and pregnancy is no longer possible. The cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries may or may not be removed; these choices are separate from removing the uterus and should be discussed before surgery.

The surgeon may use an abdominal, laparoscopic, or vaginal approach. The route depends on the uterus, previous operations, symptoms, examination findings, and the surgeon’s assessment. Hysterectomy does not automatically remove endometriosis or treat every source of pelvic pain.

Before surgery, tell the team about medicines, allergies, anaesthetic problems, heavy bleeding, and any wish to preserve fertility or ovarian function. Arrange help with meals, transport, children, and household tasks. Follow the fasting and medication instructions from your hospital.

Afterwards, expect tiredness, wound or vaginal discomfort, and activity limits that ease gradually. Walk short distances as advised, keep wounds clean and dry, and take prescribed pain relief. Avoid lifting, strenuous exercise, and vaginal intercourse until your surgeon confirms healing. Ask when you can drive, return to work, and resume usual activity.

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

Ask which surgical route is recommended and why, whether the cervix, tubes, or ovaries will remain, how existing pain will be assessed, what recovery restrictions apply, and which symptoms should trigger a call.