Vaginal Hysterectomy – Procedure and Recovery

Vaginal hysterectomy

During a vaginal hysterectomy, the womb and cervix are removed through an incision that’s made in the top of the vagina. After the womb and cervix have been removed, the incision will be sewn up. The operation usually takes less than an hour to complete. A vaginal hysterectomy is usually preferred over an abdominal hysterectomy as it is less invasive, involves a shorter stay in hospital, and the recovery time also tends to be quicker.

Usual length of stay in hospital

In most instances, you will be admitted to hospital on the day of your operation. You may be able to go home within 24 hours or, depending on your circumstances, you may need to stay in hospital for more than one day.

After-effects of general anaesthesia

Most modern anaesthetics are short lasting. You should not have, or suffer from, any after-effects for more than a day after your operation. During the first 24 hours you may feel more sleepy than usual and your judgement may be impaired. You are likely to be in hospital during the first 24 hours but, if not, you should have an adult with you during this time and you should not drive or make any important decisions.

Catheter

You may have a catheter (tube) in your bladder to allow drainage of your urine. This is usually for up to 24 hours after your operation until you are easily able to walk to the toilet to empty your bladder. If you have problems passing urine, you may need to have a catheter for a few days.

Scars

Stitches and dressings

Packs

You may have a pack (a length of gauze like a large tampon) in your vagina after the operation to reduce the risk of bleeding. A nurse will remove this after your operation while you are still in hospital. Check with your nurse that this has been done before you go home.

Vaginal bleeding

You can expect to have some vaginal bleeding for one to two weeks after your operation. This is like a light period and is red or brown in colour. Some women have little or no bleeding initially, and then have a sudden gush of old blood or fluid about 10 days later. This usually stops quickly. You should use sanitary towels rather than tampons as using tampons could increase the risk of infection.

Pain and discomfort

You can expect pain and discomfort in your lower abdomen for at least the first few days after your operation. When leaving hospital, you should be provided with painkillers for the pain you are experiencing. Sometimes painkillers that contain codeine or dihydrocodeine can make you sleepy, slightly sick and constipated. If you do need to take these medications, try to eat extra fruit and fibre to reduce the chances of becoming constipated. Taking painkillers as prescribed to reduce your pain will enable you to get out of bed sooner, stand up straight and move around – all of which will speed up your recovery and help to prevent the formation of blood clots in your legs or your lungs.

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