What to expect from radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer

The surgeon removes the womb and cervix, surrounding supporting tissue and the upper part of the vagina. Pelvic lymph nodes may also be assessed or removed. The approach may be open or minimally invasive, depending on your cancer, anatomy and specialist advice. Removal of the womb means you cannot become pregnant, and the effect on the ovaries should be discussed before surgery.

Your team will explain the operation, anaesthetic, expected pain control and whether a urinary catheter is likely to remain temporarily. Arrange help with meals, transport and lifting at home. Walk as advised, keep the wound clean, take prescribed medicines and avoid strenuous activity until cleared. Ask when driving, work, sex and pelvic exercises can resume.

Contact your surgical team for increasing wound redness, discharge, worsening pain, difficulty passing urine, heavy vaginal bleeding, persistent vomiting or a fever. Seek urgent help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting or a swollen painful leg. These symptoms can need immediate assessment after major pelvic surgery.

Ask which tissues and lymph nodes are planned for removal, how bladder function will be supported, whether further treatment may be recommended, and how pathology results will shape follow-up.