Abdominal Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a procedure to remove the uterus with the cervix being removed at the same time. Also if necessary the ovaries can be removed at the same time. 

There are a number of reasons for a hysterectomy including:

• heavy periods

• ovarian cysts

• endometrosis

• chronic pelvic inflammatory disease

Whilst surgery is not the only option it is sometimes the favourable option. All options will be discussed with your consultant prior to any procedure. 

An abdominal hysterectomy is usually performed under a general anaesthetic with the operation taking approximately an hour.

A cut will be made by your surgeon just above the bikini line to enable your surgeon to remove the womb. A cut will also need to be made at the top of the vagina to remove the cervix.

You will be allowed home after around 4 to 6 days however exercise will not be advised for a period of 2 to 3 weeks after. Full rest is required for the first two weeks after the operation. 

You will be allowed to return to work within six to twelve weeks and the consultant will advise on timings after the follow up appointments. 

It will sometimes take up to 3 months for you to return to full fitness with regular exercise certainly helping progress. 

After three months you should be feeling more or less back to normal.

This procedure will normally be covered by the medical insurance policy but patients are advised to check with the provider prior to any treatment.

If you are paying for your own treatment all costs will be discussed and explained prior to any treatment taking place. This will be confirmed in writing along with any surgeon fees, anaesthetist fees and hospital charges prior to admission.