Hysterectomy Support Group
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, usually done by a gynecologist. Hysterectomy may be total (removing the body and cervix of the uterus) or partial (also called supra-cervical). Although there are conservative alternatives, hysterectomy is performed for uterine fibroids, pelvic pain, pelvic relaxation, heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding, and cancer.
These arent subjects we readily discuss with others but just imparting my experience after hysterectomy. Im 6+ years post-op and have had issues with both ever since...no problems with either one before surgery and no risk factors except hysterectomy. I had diarrhea for close to a year post-op. Initially, I was going an absurd number of times every day. Nothing more embarrassing at work than to have to run (and I mean almost literally run) to the restroom every 2 to 3 hours. The frequency eventually settled down but my bowels never returned to normal. I feel pressure and some discomfort before a BM and then it usually comes on suddenly and now I sometimes leak slightly. Bowels are very loose and testing showed fat malabsorption.
Bladder problems are off and on and, thankfully, not nearly as bad. My bladder sometimes doesnt empty all the way. I think Im finished when Im not.
The many hysterectomy induced changes to my appearance (skin, hair, shape) and quality of life produce enough anxiety without these problems on top of it all. And the worst part theyll probably get progressively worse as time goes on. And the thought of more surgery (especially with the mesh complications) isnt pretty.
Bladder problems are off and on and, thankfully, not nearly as bad. My bladder sometimes doesnt empty all the way. I think Im finished when Im not.
The many hysterectomy induced changes to my appearance (skin, hair, shape) and quality of life produce enough anxiety without these problems on top of it all. And the worst part theyll probably get progressively worse as time goes on. And the thought of more surgery (especially with the mesh complications) isnt pretty.
But even absent that, the removal of the uterus causes the bowels to descend into the uterine space and sit on top of the vagina. That's why many women's bowel habits change post-hysterectomy. Constipation seems to be much more common though than diarrhea.