Hysterectomy Risks & Complications
Most women experience no complications during or following a hysterectomy. In fact, the relief of painful symptoms often results in a positive post-surgery experience. In some cases, the surgeon must change from a vaginal incision to an abdominal incision during surgery.
Risks associated with the procedure include the following:
- Blood clots
- Bowel or bladder injury
- Heavy blood loss requiring transfusion
- Infection
- Problems with anesthesia
- Wound pulling open after surgery
Following hysterectomy, long-term complications can include the following:
- Decrease in sexual desire (if both ovaries have been removed)
- Feelings of loss or diminished femininity
- Increased risk for osteoporosis in women under age 45
- Pain during sex (if vagina has been partially removed)
- Pelvic weakness
- Vaginal dryness (caused by low estrogen levels if ovaries are removed)
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 11 Jun 2001
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 04 Dec 2007
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