What Is the Procedure for Vaginal Hysterectomy?
Understanding the procedure for vaginal hysterectomy helps demystify what happens when the uterus is removed through the vagina—no abdominal incision needed, faster recovery, and fewer complications compared to other methods.([turn0search2])
🔍 Why It’s Done
- Used for benign conditions like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, heavy bleeding, or prolapse.([turn0search6][turn0search2])
- Avoids abdominal scars—reducing cost, hospital stay, and recovery time.([turn0search2][turn0search4])
✂️ Surgical Steps Explained
- After anesthesia (often spinal or general), the cervix is accessed with vaginal retractors and tenacula.([turn0search0][turn0search5])
- A circumferential incision is made around the cervix to access the anterior and posterior cul-de-sacs.([turn0search5][turn0search0])
- The bladder is dissected off the cervix, and the anterior peritoneum is opened—then the posterior peritoneum (Douglas pouch).([turn0search5][turn0search3])
- Ligaments and blood supply are clamped and cut in sequence: uterosacral, uterine arteries, round ligaments; tubes/ovaries may be removed or preserved.([turn0search5][turn0search3])
- The uterus and cervix are delivered through the vaginal canal—sometimes morcellated if large.([turn0search2][turn0search3])
- The vaginal cuff is sutured—often anchored to uterosacral ligaments to prevent prolapse. Internal drainage and re-peritonealization ensure healing.([turn0search0][turn0search19])
🗂️ Summary Table
| Procedure Phase | Key Actions |
|---|---|
| Entry | Incise around cervix; enter anterior & posterior cul-de-sacs |
| Dissection | Separate bladder, open peritoneum, clamp ligaments |
| Removal | Uterus lifted out vaginally (morcellated if needed) |
| Cuff Closure | Suture vaginal cuff; tie to uterosacral ligaments |
🩺 What to Expect Before & After Surgery
Pre-op prep includes labs, cessation of smoking, and discussion of anesthesia and risks. Recovery is often fast—hospital stay usually just 1–2 days; full recovery within about 3–4 weeks.([turn0search9][turn0news16])
⚠️ Risks & Aftercare
- Possible complications include bleeding, infection, damage to bladder or ureter, vaginal cuff dehiscence—or rarely evisceration.([turn0search9][turn0search20])
- Long-term risks may include pelvic prolapse, urinary incontinence, and hormonal changes if ovaries are removed.([turn0search18])
- Recovery: avoid lifting heavy weights or vaginal intercourse for ~6 weeks; maintain follow-up care.([turn0news16])
✅ Final Thoughts
Vaginal hysterectomy is a minimally invasive option for uterine removal that avoids abdominal scarring, promotes faster recovery, and is effective for benign conditions. Success relies on surgical skill, pre-op planning, and post-op care—including ligament support of the vaginal cuff to prevent future prolapse.([turn0search4])
Keyword: procedure for vaginal hysterectomy