A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, commonly done to treat endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, uterine disorders and cancer. There are several options for removal, including through the abdomen in an open surgery, laparoscopically via several small abdominal incisions or through the vagina.
Hysterectomies
Discuss the best removal technique with your doctor. Your medical history and current condition will be a factor in deciding whether one method is preferred over another. You may not qualify for a vaginal hysterectomy for various reasons, including age, weight and underlying medical conditions. For example, patients with an enlarged uterus should not undergo a vaginal hysterectomy because the incision will need to be larger to remove it.
Abdominal hysterectomy
According to the National Library of Medicine, an abdominal hysterectomy involves a 5-inch to 7-inch incision just above the pubic hair line, typically done so the scar is hidden underneath underwear and bathing suits. Expect to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days.
Vaginal hysterectomy
A vaginal hysterectomy requires an incision in the vagina through which the uterus will be removed. The benefit with this method is that no abdominal muscles need to be cut. Dissolving stitches will be used. Patients can expect to stay in the hospital 2-3 days.
Cons
The risks and possible complications with a hysterectomy, regardless of the method, are excessive blood loss, perforation of the bowel or bladder, problems with the anesthesia, infected wound sites, or the wound reopening. Patients should contact their doctor as soon as possible if they develop excessive bleeding, a fever or oozing from the wound site, as this can indicate an infection.
Recovery
A vaginal hysterectomy allows the patient to resume normal activities within one to two weeks. An abdominal hysterectomy on the other hand, requires four to eight weeks for a person to get back to normal.
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