When a complete hysterectomy is done, the entire uterus and cervix is removed. If a partial hysterectomy is performed, the lower part of the uterus and cervix may be left. A radical abdominal hysterectomy may be performed in severe cases of gynecological cancer. The uterus, cervix, upper area of the vagina and surrounding tissues are removed. Sometimes the fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed as well. According to the Mayo Clinic, a hysterectomy is the second most common surgery in the United States amongst women. Recovery time will vary depending on the type of procedure performed.
Vaginal Hysterectomy
During a vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus is severed from the ovaries, fallopian tubes and upper vagina and any connective tissue that supports the uterus. The uterus is then pulled through the vagina. Once the surgery is completed, you will stay within a hospital for up to 3 days in order to heal. If the fallopian tubes and ovaries were removed with the uterus, you will begin to experience menopause soon after your surgery.
Vaginal Recovery
It is normal to experience heavy, menstrual-type bleeding after surgery. It may take up to 2 weeks to fully recover from a vaginal hysterectomy, and it isn't recommended that you have intercourse for up to 6 weeks after your surgery. If you begin to experience fever or chills, nausea or vomiting or blood clots that are the size of lemons, contact your doctor immediately, as this is a sign of infection.
Abdominal Hysterectomy
An abdominal hysterectomy can include the entire removal of your uterus (total hysterectomy) or only part (partial hysterectomy). Other parts of reproductive organs, such as the fallopian tubes and ovaries, may be removed. The surgery is performed by making an incision in the abdomen in order to remove the uterus. You may either have an incision made above the navel or across the bikini-line (above the pubic bone).
Abdominal Recovery
Pain is significant after an abdominal hysterectomy, but medication prescribed by your doctor can help with this. You can expect to stay in the hospital for up to 4 days, and bleeding after surgery is normal. It can take up to 8 weeks to fully recover from an abdominal hysterectomy. You won't be able to lift heavy objects for at least 6 weeks or have intercourse for up to 6 weeks. If your ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed with the uterus, menopause will start.
Robotic Hysterectomy
According to the Mayo Clinic, during a robotic hysterectomy, a doctor uses a robotic surgical system to remove the uterus. Five puncture holes are made in the body around the naval. These incisions are much smaller than the incision used in an abdominal hysterectomy. A doctor uses robotic instruments, which are placed within the body, to release the uterus from the reproductive organs. If necessary, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed as well.
Robotic Recovery
Recovery is less traumatic, since smaller incisions are made on the body. Scarring is also minimal. Usually you are able to leave the hospital a day after a robotic hysterectomy has been done. It may take 6 to 8 weeks to recover fully from a robotic hysterectomy, and many women are able to return to work within a week after the surgery. Any physical activity or intercourse should be restricted until up to 6 weeks. Bleeding after the surgery is minimal, and if all of the reproductive organs were removed, menopause will soon begin after surgery.
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