Hysterectomy Problems Years After
Some women experience complications or health issues years after a hysterectomy. Learn about potential long-term problems, symptoms to watch for, and when to seek medical advice for ongoing care.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 6th Jul, 2025
Introduction
A hysterectomy, surgical removal of the uterus, is a common procedure that many women undergo for various health reasons, such as fibroids, endometriosis, or cancer. While the surgery can provide relief, some women experience long-term effects years later. If you’ve had a hysterectomy and are facing unexpected health issues, this article will help you understand why they happen and how to manage them.
Common Long-Term Problems After Hysterectomy
Here are some common long-term problems that women may experience after a hysterectomy:
1. Hormonal Changes & Early Menopause
If your ovaries were removed (oophorectomy) during the hysterectomy, you may experience surgical menopause, leading to symptoms like:
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Mood swings
Vaginal dryness
Reduced libido
Even if your ovaries were kept, some women still experience hormonal imbalances years later due to reduced blood supply to the ovaries.
What You Can Do:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help, but discuss risks with your doctor.
Vaginal moisturisers or lubricants can ease dryness.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet help manage symptoms.
2. Pelvic Floor Weakness & Prolapse
The uterus supports pelvic muscles. After removal, some women develop pelvic organ prolapse, where the bladder, rectum, or vagina may sag, causing:
Pressure or heaviness in the pelvis
Urinary leakage
Discomfort during sex
What You Can Do:
Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) strengthen muscles.
Avoid heavy lifting to reduce strain.
Consult a physiotherapist for specialised guidance.
Consult Top Gynaecologists
3. Chronic Pain & Scar Tissue
Some women develop adhesions (internal scar tissue) years after surgery, leading to:
Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
Digestive issues (if scar tissue affects the bowels)
What You Can Do:
Gentle stretching and yoga may help.
Pain management techniques (heat therapy, medications).
Laparoscopic surgery may be needed in severe cases.
4. Sexual Health Concerns
Some women report:
Reduced sexual desire
Pain during intercourse (due to vaginal dryness or scar tissue)
Emotional changes affecting intimacy
What You Can Do:
Open communication with your partner is key.
Lubricants or estrogen creams can help.
Therapy or counselling may address emotional concerns.
5. Bone Health & Heart Risks
Removal of ovaries reduces estrogen, increasing risks of:
Osteoporosis (weaker bones)
Heart disease
What You Can Do:
Calcium and Vitamin D supplements (if needed).
Weight-bearing exercises (walking, strength training).
Regular heart health check-ups.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
Severe pelvic pain
Unusual bleeding (if cervix was kept)
Sudden weight loss or fatigue
Severe mood swings or depression
Don’t ignore persistent symptoms—consult a doctor to rule out complications.
Conclusion
A hysterectomy can be life-changing, but long-term effects don’t have to lower your quality of life. With the right care, lifestyle adjustments, and medical support, you can manage these challenges effectively.
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Dr Farhana J
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS,DGO,DNB(OG)
Tiruchirappalli
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Old Palpannai, Tiruchirappalli
Dr Parwati Sharma
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DrNB (Obs & Gyane)
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Asawari Kesari Kapoor
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
23 Years • M.B.B.S, D.G.O(Mumbai) ,D.G.O (C.P.S), D.N.B (OBGY)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Karuna Ratwani
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
11 Years • MBBS, MS( Obstetrics & Gynaecology), F.MAS, FICRS Advanced Diploma in Minimal Access surgery Fellow of International College of Robotic Surgeons Diploma in Reproductive Medicine, Kiel-Germany Masters in Cosmetic Gynaecology , Greifswald-Germany Masterclass in Obstetrics & Gynaecology Ultrasound ( ISUOG, UK)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Bhawna Garg
Gynaecological Oncologist
26 Years • MBBS, MS, (PGI MS ROHTAK) FELLOWSHIP GYNECOLOGY ONCOLOGY, (CANCER INSTITUTE CHENNAI)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Dr Farhana J
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS,DGO,DNB(OG)
Tiruchirappalli
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Old Palpannai, Tiruchirappalli
Dr Parwati Sharma
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DrNB (Obs & Gyane)
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Asawari Kesari Kapoor
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
23 Years • M.B.B.S, D.G.O(Mumbai) ,D.G.O (C.P.S), D.N.B (OBGY)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Karuna Ratwani
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
11 Years • MBBS, MS( Obstetrics & Gynaecology), F.MAS, FICRS Advanced Diploma in Minimal Access surgery Fellow of International College of Robotic Surgeons Diploma in Reproductive Medicine, Kiel-Germany Masters in Cosmetic Gynaecology , Greifswald-Germany Masterclass in Obstetrics & Gynaecology Ultrasound ( ISUOG, UK)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Bhawna Garg
Gynaecological Oncologist
26 Years • MBBS, MS, (PGI MS ROHTAK) FELLOWSHIP GYNECOLOGY ONCOLOGY, (CANCER INSTITUTE CHENNAI)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
