Hysterectomy counselling

Question 1

indications

Answer 1

heavy/painful periods

fibroids

often last resort

Question 2

types of hysteroctomy

Answer 2

Total hysterectomy: uterus and cervix removed. Ovaries usually left. If removed this a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO).

Subtotal hysterectomy uterus removed but cervix left.

Radical hysterectomy: womb, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries, part of the vagina and lymph glands are removed. This is done for cancer.

Question 3

how is it done

Answer 3

through a cut in the abdomen (scar)

through vagina (no visible scar)

Keyhole (small scars)

Question 4

will my ovaries be removed? if so what happens next, if not what happens next

Answer 4

Removal of healthy ovaries not recommended - reduces risk of ovarian cancer but increases risk of heart conditions

If removed may require HRT as premature menopause

If ovaries not removed, still 1 in 3 chance of menopause within 2 years

Question 5

Will affect my sex life

Answer 5

Usually not, may make it better!

Should not affect sex drive unless ovaries removed

But some report changed orgasm/difficulty reaching orgasm.

Usually begin to have sex again in 6 weeks.

No longer need contraception

Question 6

post-op comments

Answer 6

painkillers

eat & drink within a few hours

may catheter

rest & build up exercise regularly

light bleeding up to 6 weeks

stitches normally removed after a week

recovery 6-8 weeks up to 3 months

don’t drive until can do emergency stop (6 weeks)

Question 7

cervical screen needed?

Answer 7

Yes, if subtotal hysterectomy or a hysterectomy because of cancer