Once you are paired with a surgeon, you’ll want to learn as much as possible about your upcoming surgery. As part of your healthcare team, your surgeon and nurses are your best sources of information. The questions listed below are designed to help you gain important information for you and your family about hysterectomy.

1. How long will it take me to recover from having a hysterectomy?

2. When will I be able to leave the hospital?

3. Will my ovaries or any reproductive organs other than my uterus be removed?

4. When I can resume my normal activities, including school, work, exercise, sexual activity, and recreation?

5. What type of hysterectomy will I have? Is it a total abdominal hysterectomy or a minimally invasive procedure?

6. Is there a type of minimally invasive procedure appropriate for my situation?

7. Which organs will be removed during my procedure?

8. Exactly where, and how big, will the incisions be that are made on my body to perform the surgery?

9. I’d like to make sure I am having the least-invasive procedure. Is that possible?

10. How many of these procedures have you performed in the last 12 months?

If you’re not satisfied with the responses you receive, consider asking for a second opinion. You are an integral part of your healthcare team, and you should feel comfortable with your physician and the recommended treatment. 

Want to know more? Read the questions about conditions and treatment options.