Vaginal hysterectomy
Uterine prolapse occurs when pelvic floor muscles and ligaments stretch and weaken with decreasing support to the uterus, which then slides down into the vagina and may even protrude at or outside the vulva. Uterine prolapse can happen to women of any age, but mostly affects postmenopausal women who have had one or more vaginal births. More often than not, the uterine prolapse is associated with prolapse of the bladder (cystocele) and the rectum (rectocele). Removal of the uterus with repair of bladder and rectal prolapse provides treatment and relief of symptoms.
How is vaginal hysterectomy done
When the uterus is removed through the vagina, the procedure is called a vaginal hysterectomy. The uterus is detached from the ovaries, fallopian tubes and upper vagina, as well as from the blood vessels and connective tissue that support it. This is then followed by strengthening the surrounding tissues and ligaments.
Vaginal hysterectomy involves a shorter time in the hospital and faster recovery than an abdominal hysterectomy, which requires an incision in your abdomen.
After surgery
After surgery, you will be in a recovery room for about 30 minutes to an hour, and in the hospital overnight. Some women are able to go home on the following day after surgery. You are likely to have a thin flexible tube in your bladder, a urinary catheter, to help you pass urine as you may find it difficult to do that yourself. The catheter is removed 12 -24 hours later following which you should be able to pass urine.
You may also have a long piece of gauze placed inside the vagina to put pressure on the vaginal edges. This can be uncomfortable but is removed after 12 hours. You are offered medications for pain and encouraged to get up and move around as soon as you can.
Recovery
For the first few days or weeks after the operation, you may have some vaginal bleeding or discharge, and during this time you should use sanitary towels and not tampons.
You should be able to have a shower and bathe as normal once you have left the hospital, but you may need to avoid swimming for 6 weeks.
It is best to avoid having sex for around 4 to 6 weeks, until you have healed completely.
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Patient seen for : Dilation and Curettage
Dr Alak Pal was great. He made me feel comfortable and explained everything clearly, including next steps. Would recommend.
07-04-2022
Patient seen for : Hysteroscopy
Very professional and helpful in explaining everything. Helped me make an informed decision with this vast knowledge.
10-03-2022
Patient seen for : Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
From the initial appointment, surgery, aftercare and to my final appointment, Mr Pal was extremely professional and understanding to my particular medical circumstances. The entire abdominal hysterectomy procedure was extremely satisfactory. He spent time listening to any concerns that I had and explained clearly and simply the process surrounding the surgery. I would highly recommend him for anyone contemplating such a procedure. Additionally, post-surgical care and appointments were excellent too.
18-03-2020
Fantastic doctor, very pleased with consultation. Thanks
16-03-2020
