How long will it be before I can return to normal?
This varies from person to person. Recovery is usually faster if you have had the hysterectomy through the vagina. You are likely to need to rest more than usual for a few weeks after the operation. You are likely to be recommended to do light exercise and gradually build up the amount of exercise you do. Full recovery commonly takes around 6-8 weeks but it is not usual for women to take three months until they feel fully back to normal.
You should not drive until you are safe to do an emergency stop; this is usually around six weeks after the operation but you should check with your insurance company. The time before you can return to work will depend on your job. You can discuss this with your doctor or gynaecologist.
Will I still need to have cervical screening tests?
Most women no longer need to have cervical screening tests after a hysterectomy. However, if you have had a subtotal hysterectomy or a hysterectomy because of cancer then you may be advised to continue having cervical screening tests. Your doctor will advise you about this.
Further help and information
Hysterectomy Association
60 Redwood House, Charlton Down, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9UH
Tel: 0871 781 1141 Web: www.hysterectomy-association.org.uk
Aims to provide clear, concise information about hysterectomy and related issues for women undergoing, or planning to undergo, surgery. The intention is to ensure that women make informed choices about their surgery.
References
- Orozco LJ, Salazar A, Clarke J, et al; Hysterectomy versus hysterectomy plus oophorectomy for premenopausal women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008 Jul 16;(3):CD005638. [abstract]
- Johnson N, Barlow D, Lethaby A, et al; Surgical approach to hysterectomy for benign gynaecological disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2006 Apr 19;(2):CD003677. [abstract]
- Falcone T, Walters MD; Hysterectomy for benign disease. Obstet Gynecol. 2008 Mar;111(3):753-67. [abstract]
- Parker WH, Broder MS, Liu Z, et al; Ovarian conservation at the time of hysterectomy for benign disease. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2007 Jun;50(2):354-61. [abstract]
- Kluivers KB, Johnson NP, Chien P, et al; Comparison of laparoscopic and abdominal hysterectomy in terms of quality of life: a systematic review. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2008 Jan;136(1):3-8. Epub 2007 Dec 11. [abstract]
* Heavy menstrual bleeding, NICE Clinical Guideline (January 2007)
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
By Jennifer Shepherd
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