Risks of Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy poses some risks of major and minor complications. But most women do not have complications after a hysterectomy.

Some studies have shown complication rates that are about the same for total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH), and total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH).^{4, 5} Your risk of problems after surgery may be higher or lower than average. This may depend in part on how experienced the surgeon is.

Major medical complications after hysterectomy

Rates of major complications after vaginal hysterectomy and abdominal hysterectomy (rounded to nearest 0.5%):³

In the study described above, the major complication rate was nearly twice as high after laparoscopic abdominal hysterectomies than after open abdominal hysterectomies. Complication rates were about the same for vaginal and laparoscopic vaginal surgeries. (These rates do not apply to radical hysterectomy done to treat cancer.)³

Minor medical complications after hysterectomy

Rates of minor complications after vaginal hysterectomy and abdominal hysterectomy (rounded to nearest 0.5%):³

In the study described above, there was no significant difference in minor complication rates, whether the hysterectomy was laparoscopic, vaginal, or abdominal. (These rates do not apply to radical hysterectomy done to treat cancer.)

Infection risk is lowest when your doctor gives you antibiotic medicine at the time of surgery.⁶

Other ongoing complications of hysterectomy include:

• Difficulty urinating. This is more common after removal of lymph nodes, ovaries, and structures that support the uterus (radical hysterectomy).
• Weakness of the pelvic muscles and ligaments that support the vagina, bladder, and rectum. Kegel exercises may help strengthen the pelvic muscles and ligaments. But some women need other treatments, including additional surgery.
• Continued heavy bleeding. Some vaginal bleeding within 4 to 6 weeks following a hysterectomy is expected. But call your doctor if bleeding continues to be heavy.
• Some women may experience early menopause.
• The formation of scar tissue (adhesions) in the pelvic area.