According to MayoClinic.com, a vaginal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed through the vagina. Surgeons use this type of hysterectomy in cases where the uterus has not become greatly enlarged and if no cancer is present. A vaginal hysterectomy involves a shorter hospital stay, lower cost and speedier recovery. In addition, there are less risks associated with a vaginal hysterectomy than with an abdominal hysterectomy. Vaginal hysterectomies treat such gynecological issues as fibroid tumors, endometriosis, uterine prolapse, abnormal vaginal bleeding and in some cases, chronic pelvic pain. For many of these conditions, a hysterectomy remains just one of several treatment options. Women should ask about all their treatment options with their physician before deciding on a hysterectomy.
Bleeding
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that excessive bleeding during or after the procedure may complicate vaginal hysterectomies. If bleeding persists, a blood transfusion may become necessary to replace the blood lost. In rare cases, an additional surgery may prove necessary to locate the source of the bleeding and stop it.
Infection
MayoClinic.com reports that infection is a possible complication of a vaginal hysterectomy. A low-grade fever commonly occurs after most surgeries and usually does not indicate an infection, but a high or persistent fever may indicate one. Physicians treat infections with antibiotics and are rarely serious.
Damage To Surrounding Organs
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports that damage to organs surrounding the vagina and the uterus may occur during a vaginal hysterectomy. The bladder, ureters and large and small intestines may become injured during the procedure. Surgeons usually detect injury and correct it during surgery, but if an injury is detected after the completion of the hysterectomy, another surgery may prove necessary to repair the damaged organ. According to MayoClinic.com, the chance of damage to surrounding organs is greater if large fibroids, severe endometriosis or cancer obstructs the surgeon's view.
Blood Clots
MayoClinic.com reports that the formation of blood clots may occur after a vaginal hysterectomy. Blood clots most often develop in the lower legs or the lungs due to restricted mobility after surgery. Certain risk factors including obesity, smoking or history of blood clots, may increase the risk for women developing blood clots. However, physicians may prescribe medications to help prevent these complications.
In addition, the UpToDate website reports that women who take oral contraceptives should stop taking them one month prior to surgery since they may increase a woman's risk for developing blood clots. Women should discuss their risk for developing blood clots with their physicians prior to surgery.
