What are the short-term risks and complications of a hysterectomy?
All surgery is not without its risks. Therefore, a list of the main risks and complications that could occur following hysterectomy includes: • serious infections that may require a woman to return to the hospital and be treated with antibiotics; • urinary problems, from a kidney or bladder infection to urinary incontinence (this risk is greater for radical hysterectomies); • hemorrhaging that may require blood transfusions; • severe reactions to the anaesthesia; and • intestinal problems if the intestines were damaged during surgery–some women may have to undergo another operation to remove any adherence* obstructing (blocking) their intestines. *Adherence: Scar tissue that attaches organs together or can end up in an organ, blocking it and disturbing its function. Regardless of the type of surgery you will undergo, make sure that you are aware of all the possible risks and complications. You have the right to clear answers to your questions.
