Hysterectomy

In the Name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Aria Specialized and Subspecialty Hospital

Self-Care Pamphlet in:

Hysterectomy

Women Surgery Ward

* Definition of hysterectomy:

Removing the uterus by surgery is called hysterectomy.

* Causes of pain after surgery:

• Pain caused by flatulence
• Pain caused by the removal of the uterus
• Pain caused by surgical incision
• Pain caused by immobility during the surgery and then bladder dysfunction and urinary retention caused by it

* The most common cause (removal of the uterus) is uterine fibroids.

* When removal of the uterus or hysterectomy is required:

More than one fifth of women perform hysterectomy during their lifetime and it can be said that this surgery is very common. Hysterectomy is mandatory in almost all cases of uterine or cervical cancer, and it is usually recommended in ovarian cancer as well. However, often, hysterectomy is carried out on women who do not have cancer but prefer to remove their uterus due to bleeding and severe pain in the uterus and undergo hysterectomy surgery. Such surgeries are suitable for women who do not want to become pregnant in the future. After hysterectomy, no traces of it remain on the body.

* Methods to reduce pain after surgery:

• In case of pain, inform the nurse so that according to the doctor’s order, a suitable painkiller will be given to relieve the pain.
• When starting feeding, pay attention to the instructions related to following the diet.
• You can use a hot water bag to reduce the pain of the operation site.
• Adhering to the diet of liquids and soft food is very important until the return of normal bowel movements.
• In your bed, use breathing exercises (such as effective coughing, deep breathing, and breathing exercises) in order to prevent breathing problems and the resulting pain.
• Do the necessary training related to urinary retention, such as sitting on the toilet, pouring water on the place of excrement, and using a hot water bag.

* Possible complications after surgery:

• Constipation
• Fever and infection
• Anxiety
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

* Self-care after surgery:

• For the first 24 hours after the operation, use liquids and from the second day, use normal foods.
• 48 hours after surgery, remove the surgical dressing and take a bath.
• Walk regularly.
• Sutures are usually absorbed by themselves, and if they cannot be absorbed, they must be removed after a week (by a doctor).
• Antibiotics, laxatives and painkillers should be used as prescribed by the doctor.
• Visit the doctor’s office on the fifth day after the operation.
• Avoid heavy activities for 6 weeks after surgery.
• In case of fever, chills, bleeding and abdominal stiffness, go to the doctor’s office or hospital.
• Do not do intercourse until 6 weeks after the operation.
• Be sure to inform the attending physician about the pathology result because it may require further treatment.
• If the ovaries are removed, hot flashes and sweating will start a few days after surgery. If the symptoms are severe, see a doctor.
• Hysterectomy does not change the process of married life.