Clarity, Safety, and a Plan for Recovery
When uterine surgery is the right choice, we tailor the approach—vaginal, laparoscopic/robotic, or abdominal—to your anatomy and goals.
A hysterectomy removes the uterus to treat conditions like heavy bleeding, fibroids, pelvic pain, prolapse, or cancer & precancer. It ends menstrual bleeding and pregnancy. Decisions about the cervix and ovaries are individualized—some people keep the cervix (supracervical hysterectomy) and/or the ovaries to avoid surgical menopause. We will review your diagnosis, options, and expected recovery so you can move forward confidently.
Fast Facts
Approaches: vaginal, laparoscopic/robotic, or abdominal (open)
Types: total (uterus + cervix) or supracervical (uterus only)
Ovary removal (oophorectomy) is optional and diagnosis-dependent
Most minimally invasive cases are same-day with faster recovery
Common Reasons It's Considered
- Heavy or painful periods not controlled by other treatments
- Bulk symptoms or bleeding from fibroids
- Endometriosis or adenomyosis impacting quality of life
- Uterine prolapse
- Precancer or cancer (type and extent guide the approach)
What Is Removed?
A total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix. A supracervical (partial) hysterectomy removes the uterus but keeps the cervix. Fallopian tubes are often removed (salpingectomy) to reduce future cancer risk. Ovaries may be preserved to maintain natural hormones or removed when risk or symptoms warrant. We align the plan with your age, diagnosis, risk factors, and preferences.
Approach Options at a Glance
Vaginal or Laparoscopic/Robotic
- Tiny or no external incisions
- Less pain and faster recovery
- Same-day discharge common
- Preferred for many benign indications
Abdominal (Open)
- Larger incision and longer recovery
- Used for very large uteri, dense adhesions, or safety
- Usually requires a hospital stay
- Chosen when exposure or control is paramount
Why It Matters
Choosing the right operation can end years of bleeding, anemia, or pelvic pain and improve daily life. A minimally invasive approach often speeds healing, but your anatomy and diagnosis guide the safest path. We discuss expectations, alternatives, and how the plan fits your goals, fertility status, and long-term health.
What to Expect
On surgery day you will meet anesthesia, review the plan, and confirm consents. The uterus is removed via the chosen approach; if the cervix is removed, the vaginal cuff is closed internally. Most minimally invasive cases go home the same day. Light vaginal spotting is common for 1–2 weeks. We provide clear guidance for pain control, walking, bowel care, and lifting restrictions.
Recovery Timeline
Light walking begins immediately. Many return to desk work in 1–2 weeks after minimally invasive surgery and 4–6 weeks after abdominal surgery. Avoid heavy lifting and intercourse until cleared (often 6 weeks). Fatigue improves steadily; listen to your body and progress activity gradually.
Safety & Considerations
Risks include bleeding, infection, clots, injury to nearby organs, hernia at incision sites, or delayed healing at the vaginal cuff. If ovaries are removed before natural menopause, symptoms of low estrogen can occur; we discuss options, including hormone therapy when appropriate. If the cervix is retained, routine cervical screening continues per guidelines.
Before Your Procedure
- ✓Arrange a ride and home support for the first 24–48 hours
- ✓Follow fasting and medication instructions (blood thinners, diabetes meds, supplements)
- ✓Stop nicotine and limit alcohol per guidance to support healing
- ✓Have stool softeners, fiber, and OTC pain relievers on hand if recommended
- ✓Prepare loose clothing and a small pillow for the ride home
Frequently Asked Questions
1Will I go into menopause after hysterectomy?
Removing the uterus alone does not cause menopause. If the ovaries are removed, estrogen and progesterone levels drop and menopause begins immediately. Many choose to keep ovaries to maintain natural hormones; we review benefits and risks for your situation.
2How long is the hospital stay?
Minimally invasive procedures are often same-day or 23-hour stays. Abdominal surgery usually requires a longer stay. Your plan depends on the approach, health status, and recovery progress.
3When can I exercise and have sex again?
Walking starts right away. Increase activity over 2–6 weeks based on approach and comfort. Avoid intercourse, tampons, pools, and hot tubs until cleared—often around 6 weeks—so tissues can heal fully.
4Will I need Pap tests after surgery?
If your cervix is removed and you have no history of high-grade changes or cancer, cervical screening usually stops. If the cervix remains (supracervical hysterectomy), continue routine screening. We confirm your specific plan at follow-up.
5What if severe endometriosis is found?
We tailor the operation to treat visible disease while preserving healthy tissue where possible. Additional procedures or follow-up therapies may be recommended to manage symptoms and reduce recurrence.
A Surgical Plan That Fits Your Life
We'll help you weigh approaches, recovery, and long-term health so your hysterectomy decision is informed, safe, and aligned with your goals.
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