What Are the Side Effects?

Understanding and Preparing for the Effects of Hysterectomy Surgery

Aside from the risks of surgery, hysterectomies pose a number of side effects. Although these side effects can vary considerably from case to case, they all have the potential to impact one's life in deeply personal and emotional ways. As part of your decision process to undergo a hysterectomy entails deep consideration of the things important to you, you should weigh the side effects posed by this procedure in comparison to what you wish to achieve with your treatment and what you wish to accomplish in your personal life. The following information will help you better understand the side effects posed by this life-changing procedure.

Physical & Emotional Side Effects

The physical side effects of a hysterectomy surgery are muddled in misunderstanding and a general lack of scientific knowledge. Typically, the facts and certainty seem to end with the physical effects we know to arise after surgery. We know that a hysterectomy surgery can provide relief from the symptoms women experience as the result of their condition, including abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain. Although some women find that their lives improve dramatically without these symptoms, others may find that the surgery creates new problems.

When the uterus and other reproductive structures are removed, women often go through menopause earlier than expected. As a result, physical effects of menopause will occur, including hot flashes, mood swings, and a decreased production of estrogen. These physical effects, in turn, can influence one's emotions. After a hysterectomy, your body will be adjusting to changes, especially to changes in hormone levels. These changes can affect your mood, emotions, and your sexual function.

Addressing these physical and emotional side effects needs to be done based on individual assessment. Some women may benefit from antidepressants or hormone replacement therapy to ease some of the negative side effects. As problems with bowel or urinary function may also arise, physical exercises (Kegel exercises) and other treatments may also be necessary.

Other Side Effects

When it comes to other side effects, debate remains as to how these effects manifest. Some women, for example, find that physical problems with sexual function create a number of negative side effects. Others, however, may find that their sex lives improve without the negative symptoms associated with their pre-surgery condition. Women who undergo a hysterectomy must also come to terms with the fact that they will no longer be able to bear children. For younger women or for those who wish to still have children, this can be a challenging barrier to reaching full happiness and enjoyment of life. Additionally, because it does involve the removal of such identifying reproductive organs, the fact that hysterectomy is not reversible may further contribute to various emotional and psychological repercussions.

Understanding that Side Effects Are Unique

The most important thing to understand when considering these side effects is that they do not affect everyone in the same manner. Aside from physical side effects, which can vary in severity and scope, other emotional, sexual, and psychological side effects can range considerably in nature. Some women may experience no adverse effects while others may have a difficult time adjusting to new changes. Women considering a hysterectomy can benefit from speaking with other women who have undergone the procedure. Speaking with loved ones and learning more about yourself prior to the procedure can also prove invaluable as you prepare for life after a hysterectomy. If you would like more information about the side effects posed by hysterectomy, or if you have any questions or concerns relating specifically to your situation, please do not hesitate to complete a contact form.