Abdominal & vaginal hysterectomy
An abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, recommended for certain gynaecological conditions such as fibroids, heavy bleeding, prolapse, or ongoing pelvic pain.
Depending on your symptoms, medical history, and the most appropriate treatment approach, surgery may be performed through the abdomen or vaginally. Your care will be tailored to your individual needs, with a focus on safety, comfort, and supporting your recovery at every stage.
You may need a vaginal hysterectomy (uterus removal) surgery if you have heavy periods, fibroids or uterine prolapse.
A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus. It is possible to remove the ovaries if you have a vaginal hysterectomy but they will more than likely be left alone.
The common reasons for having a vaginal hysterectomy include uterine prolapse, heavy periods and fibroids.
A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods.
Symptoms of a uterine prolapse may be improved by doing pelvic floor exercises.
Heavy periods can be treated using oral medications, a hormonal coil in the uterus, or by removing only the lining of the womb.
Depending on the size and position of fibroids, medication can be taken to try to control the symptoms. Other treatments include surgery to remove the fibroids only or uterine artery embolisation to reduce the blood flow to the fibroids.
A vaginal hysterectomy is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. The operation usually takes about three-quarters of an hour.
Your gynaecologist will make a cut around the cervix at the top of the vagina so they can remove your womb and cervix.
Usually they will stitch the support ligaments of your womb to the top of your vagina to reduce the risk of a future prolapse.
General complications of any operation:
- Pain
- Sickness or feeling sick
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
Specific complications of this operation:
- Damage to internal organs
- Conversion to an abdominal hysterectomy
- Developing a haematoma
- Long-term problems
- Prolapse
- Continued pain
- Adhesions
- Menopause, even if your ovaries are not removed
You will be able to go home after one to four days.
For the first two weeks at home you should rest and continue to do the exercises that you were shown in hospital. You can usually go back to work after six to eight weeks.
After three months you should be feeling more or less back to normal.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, you should ask a member of the healthcare team or your GP for advice.
A hysterectomy is a major operation usually recommended after simpler treatments have failed.
Vaginal hysterectomy costs are covered by most medical insurance policies, but please check with your insurer first. If you are paying for your own treatment the cost of the operation will be explained and confirmed in writing when you book the operation. Ask the hospital for a quote beforehand, and ensure that this includes the surgeon’s fee, the anaesthetist’s fee and the hospital charge for your procedure.
Book Consultation
Booking a consultation is simple and straightforward. During your appointment, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms in a comfortable, confidential setting, receive a thorough assessment, and explore personalised treatment options designed to help you feel your best.