Complications from Hysterectomy

Possible Complications of Hysterectomy

The majority of women do not experience serious complications after hysterectomy, however, complications that may occur include:

• Fever - slight fever is common after any surgery.
• Difficulty urinating. This is more common after a radical hysterectomy.
• Urinary incontinence, more common in women over 60
• Continued heavy bleeding. Some vaginal bleeding within 4 to 6 weeks following a hysterectomy is expected, however, call your health professional if bleeding continues to be heavy.
• Mild nausea and vomiting.
• Menopausal symptoms

Other, less frequent complications include:

• Infection
• Blood clots in the legs, lungs, heart or brain
• Bladder or bowel injury or injury to other organs
• Hematoma (blood collecting at the incision)
• Reactions/allergies to drugs
• Pelvic scar formation
• Prolonged paralysis of the bowels
• Stitches breaking apart
• Internal bleeding
• Transfusions
• Heart problems
• Breathing problems