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Laparoscopic hysterectomy

7-minute read

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a procedure to remove your womb (uterus). The neck of your uterus (your cervix) is usually also removed. Your ovaries may need to be removed at the same time.

What are the benefits?

There are common reasons for having a hysterectomy:

A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods.

The womb and surrounding structures.

Are there any alternatives?

What will happen if I decide not to have the procedure or the procedure is delayed?

Your doctor will monitor your condition and try to control your symptoms.

You may feel that you would prefer to put up with your symptoms rather than have a procedure. Your gynaecologist will tell you the risks of not having a procedure.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your healthcare team:

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure is usually performed under a general anaesthetic but various anaesthetic techniques are possible. The procedure usually takes about 90 minutes.

Your gynaecologist will make a small cut, usually on or near your belly button, so they can insert an instrument in your abdominal cavity to inflate it with gas (carbon dioxide). They will make several small cuts on your abdomen so they can insert tubes (ports) into your abdomen. Your gynaecologist will insert surgical instruments through the ports along with a telescope so they can see inside your abdomen and perform the procedure.

Your gynaecologist may need to place instruments through your vagina to help them remove your uterus.

They will make a cut around your cervix at the top of your vagina so they can remove your uterus and cervix.

If the video doesn't load, try this Laparoscopic Hysterectomy.

How can I prepare myself for the procedure?

If you smoke, stopping smoking now may reduce your risk of developing complications and will improve your long-term health.

Try to maintain a healthy weight. You have a higher risk of developing complications if you are overweight. Regular exercise should help you prepare for the procedure, help you recover and improve your long-term health. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

Speak to the healthcare team about any vaccinations you may need to reduce your risk of serious illness while you recover. When you come into hospital, practise hand washing and wear a face covering when asked.

What complications can happen?

Possible complications of this procedure are shown below. Some may be serious and can even be life threatening.

General complications of any procedure

Specific complications of this procedure

Keyhole surgery complications

Hysterectomy complications

Long-term problems

Consequences of this procedure

What happens after the procedure?

You will be able to go home when the healthcare team decides you are medically fit enough, which is usually the same day or after 1 to 2 days.

Rest for 2 weeks and continue to do the exercises that you were shown in hospital.

You can return to work once your doctor has said you are well enough to do so (usually after 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your type of work). You should be feeling more or less back to normal after 2 to 3 months.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

Most women make a good recovery and return to normal activities.

Summary

A hysterectomy is a major procedure usually recommended after simpler treatments have failed. Your symptoms should improve.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

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