Can You Get A Hysterectomy Right After Giving Birth?
Learn whether you can get a hysterectomy right after giving birth, the medical reasons for it, potential risks, and recovery insights to help you make informed decisions.
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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
Pregnancy and childbirth are significant life events, and sometimes, medical complications or personal choices may lead to questions about additional procedures, such as a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus). If you're wondering whether a hysterectomy can be performed immediately after giving birth, this article will help you understand the possibilities, risks, and considerations involved.
What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a woman’s uterus. Depending on the reason, the surgery may also involve removing the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. There are different types of hysterectomies:
Total Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and cervix.
Partial (Supracervical) Hysterectomy: Removal of only the upper part of the uterus, leaving the cervix.
Radical Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina, and surrounding tissues (usually done in cancer cases).
Can a Hysterectomy Be Done Right After Delivery?
Yes, in certain cases, a hysterectomy can be performed immediately after childbirth. This is called a postpartum hysterectomy or peripartum hysterectomy. However, it is not a routine procedure and is typically done only in emergency situations or for specific medical reasons.
When Is a Postpartum Hysterectomy Necessary?
A hysterectomy right after delivery is usually performed due to life-threatening complications, such as:
1. Severe Postpartum Haemorrhage (Uncontrolled Bleeding): If bleeding cannot be stopped with medications, uterine massage, or other procedures, a hysterectomy may be required to save the mother’s life.
2. Uterine Rupture: A tear in the uterus that can occur during labour, especially in women with previous C-sections or uterine surgeries.
3. Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS): A condition where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall and does not detach after birth, leading to severe bleeding.
4. Cancer or Large Fibroids: If a woman has uterine cancer or extremely large fibroids that complicate delivery, a hysterectomy may be necessary.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Elective Hysterectomy After Birth
In rare cases, some women may choose to have a hysterectomy immediately after childbirth for non-emergency reasons, such as:
A history of severe gynaecological issues (like endometriosis or chronic pelvic pain).
A strong personal or medical decision to avoid future pregnancies.
However, most doctors will recommend waiting until after recovery from childbirth to reduce risks.
Risks of a Postpartum Hysterectomy
While a hysterectomy can be life-saving in emergencies, it also carries risks, especially right after delivery:
Increased blood loss (since the uterus is already enlarged and highly vascular).
Higher risk of infection due to recent childbirth.
Longer recovery time compared to a planned hysterectomy.
Emotional impact: Adjusting to childbirth and surgical removal of the uterus can be emotionally challenging.
Recovery After a Postpartum Hysterectomy
Recovery depends on whether the procedure was vaginal or abdominal (C-section followed by hysterectomy). Generally:
Hospital Stay: 2-5 days (longer if complications arise).
Physical Recovery: 6-8 weeks, similar to a C-section.
Emotional Support: Counselling or support groups may help with emotional adjustment.
Tips for Recovery
Some of the tips for recovery are:
Rest adequately and avoid heavy lifting.
Follow your doctor’s instructions on wound care.
Seek emotional support if needed.
Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Alternatives to Immediate Hysterectomy
If the situation is not life-threatening, doctors may explore other options before recommending a hysterectomy, such as:
Uterine artery embolisation (to control bleeding).
Medications (like oxytocin or misoprostol to help the uterus contract).
Balloon tamponade (a device inserted to stop bleeding).
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you have concerns about needing a hysterectomy after childbirth, discuss them with your obstetrician beforehand. If you’ve already had a hysterectomy and experience:
Heavy bleeding
Severe pain
Fever or signs of infection
Emotional distress
Seek medical help immediately.
Conclusion
A hysterectomy right after giving birth is possible but is usually reserved for emergencies. If you have concerns about your reproductive health, discuss them with your doctor to explore the safest options for your situation. Every woman’s body and medical needs are different, so personalised care is essential.
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Alapati Jyotsna
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Mona Yadav
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Dombivli
Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli
Dr. Asha Rani Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS DGO
Delhi
Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi
Consult Top Obstetrics and Gynaecology Surgeon
Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Alapati Jyotsna
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Mona Yadav
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Dombivli
Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli
Dr. Asha Rani Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS DGO
Delhi
Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi
