Laparoscopic hysterectomy
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is an operation done under general anaesthetic (you are put to sleep) to remove your uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The operation is done through small cuts (0.5 to 1 cm) in your tummy. Find out what to expect before surgery and how to recover after surgery.
Preparing for your laparoscopic hysterectomy
You will need to take at least 2 to 3 weeks off work to recover.
Arrange a friend or whānau member to take you home after the operation and to help out for a few days after.
- Stop eating before midnight.
- Use the surgical sponge you have been given to wash yourself before going to bed.
- You can drink water, black tea, or coffee (no milk or juice) until one hour before your appointment.
- Use the surgical sponge you have been given to wash the morning before your appointment.
After your surgery:
- you will be given pain relief and monitored
- you can start eating and drinking within a few hours
- you will be encouraged to move around with help
- you will have a catheter in your bladder which will be removed before you go home
- you can go home the next day.
Recovery from your laparoscopic hysterectomy
What to expect after your surgery
Stitches and dressings
Your small incisions will have dissolvable stitches. If they have not disappeared after a week, talk to your healthcare provider. Skin glue or small dressings will cover the wounds—remove them after 2 to 3 days.
Vaginal bleeding
Light bleeding for 1 to 2 weeks is normal. You may experience a sudden gush of old blood around 10 days after surgery — this usually stops quickly. Use sanitary towels, not tampons, to avoid infection.
Pain and discomfort
You may have some pain around the incisions or tummy. This is normal. Take pain relief will help you stay mobile and help with recovery.
Trapped gas from the surgery
You may have pain in your shoulder or rib because of the carbon dioxide gas used to inflate your tummy during the surgery. Walking and pain relief help you to feel better.
Constipation
It may take time for you to poo regularly. Constipation is common and you can manage it with movement, drinking enough water, and keeping to a healthy diet.
Blood clot prevention
Blood clots are a risk after surgery. Stay active and take any prescribed blood thinners for 28 days.
Showering
You can shower normally after surgery. The dressings are waterproof. Avoid baths until stitches heal (6 to 8 weeks).
Driving
Do not drive until you can comfortably sit, wear a seatbelt, and do an emergency stop. This is usually 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. Check with your healthcare provider or insurance company.
Sex
Wait 6 to 8 weeks before having sex to allow healing. You may find using a lubricant helps when having sex.
Returning to work
You should be able to return to work within 2 to 3 weeks, depending on your job. If you have a physically demanding job, you will need to start with lighter duties.
When to get emergency help
Go to your nearest accident and medical (urgent care clinic) if you have:
- severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting
- chest pains or breathlessness and your leg is red, painful and swollen.
Accident & Urgent Medical Care (A&E) — Healthpoint (external link)
When to see your healthcare provider
See your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Fever – which may indicate an infection.
- Heavy or smelly vaginal bleeding – this could be an infection.
- Painful urination – this could be a urinary tract infection needing antibiotics.
- Red or painful scars – this could mean a wound infection.