Treatment after a hysterectomy revolves around addressing the physical and emotional symptoms that occur post-surgery. Every woman has a different recovery experience after a hysterectomy, and the symptoms experienced depend largely on whether or not the ovaries were removed during the hysterectomy. It is important to work closely with your doctor after the surgery so you can come up with a treatment plan that is best suited to you.
Treatment of Physical Symptoms
Pelvic pain at the surgical site is very common post-hysterectomy. Immediately after the surgery, you will usually be given a prescription-strength pain medication, although the exact kind your doctor prescribes will depend on your medical history. As you begin to heal, you will switch to over-the-counter pain relievers until you feel you don't need them anymore.
Infections, such as yeast infections and urinary tract infections, are possible after a hysterectomy. Yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medication but your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic for urinary tract infections and any other bacterial infections you might experience.
Post-surgical bleeding is common and usually stops on its own. Your doctor may advise you to wear sanitary napkins until the bleeding ceases. If the bleeding lasts for more than a few weeks, check with your doctor. She may want to examine you to determine if there is another cause for the bleeding.
Sexual intercourse is often painful after a hysterectomy. Lubricants may help as you readjust to intercourse. Be sure to find out from your doctor how long he wants you to wait before resuming intercourse after your operation.
Treatment after Ovary Removal
When the ovaries are removed during a hysterectomy, usually in the case of cancer or endometriosis, doctors use hormone replacement therapy to treat the menopause symptoms that occur.
Treatment of Emotional Symptoms
Depression is not uncommon after a hysterectomy. Some women feel as though they have lost a big part of their womanhood, and others become concerned that their partners will not see them the same way. The depression can be exacerbated if the hysterectomy is done during childbearing years, since it will not be possible to carry a child after the surgery.
Supportive family and friends are an important part of treating these emotional symptoms. Your doctor can help with everything from telling you what to expect after your surgery to helping explore options for becoming a parent in the future. There are also support groups for women who have had hysterectomies (see Resources). Your doctor can refer you to such groups in your area.
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