Hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy

• A hysterectomy can be used to treat menstrual problems
   in women approaching the menopause. Bilateral
   salpingo- oophorectomy, which is removal of the ovaries,
   is carried out to prevent the risk of ovarian cancer in the
   future and the formation of scar tissue which may cause
   long-term pain.

• The two procedures are carried out in one operation,
   which involves the removal of the uterus, Fallopian
   tubes, cervix and ovaries. The vagina is closed over at
   the top and remains the normal length.

• The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic
   and takes about 1 hour.

• During the operation, a catheter will be passed up the
   urethra into the bladder to drain off the urine. A plastic
   tube may also be inserted into the wound to remove any
   slight bleeding. These tubes will be left in place for 24-
   48 hours.

• Although there will be some discomfort following surgery,
   this will be controlled with pain killers.

• The average length of stay in hospital is 5-7 days and
   normal activities can be resumed within 6-8 weeks.

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be prescribed
   to replace the ovarian hormones, depending upon the
   age of the patient.

• There should be no problems with sexual intercourse
   following the operation.