Total Hysterectomy in Turkey

A total hysterectomy removes the uterus (womb) and cervix. The ovaries and fallopian tubes may or may not be removed at the same time, this depends on your specific condition and is discussed with your surgeon beforehand.

The procedure can be performed in several ways. Laparoscopic (keyhole) hysterectomy uses 3-4 small incisions and a camera, offering faster recovery and smaller scars. Vaginal hysterectomy removes the uterus through the vagina with no visible abdominal incision. Open (abdominal) hysterectomy uses a larger incision and is used when the uterus is very large or other factors make minimally invasive approaches unsuitable.

Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach based on the size of your uterus, the reason for surgery, and your medical history. Laparoscopic and vaginal approaches are preferred whenever possible.

After a total hysterectomy, you will no longer have periods and cannot become pregnant. If your ovaries are preserved, you will not immediately enter menopause. If your ovaries are removed, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be discussed.

A total hysterectomy may be recommended when other treatments have failed to manage your condition.

Common reasons for hysterectomy:

• Large or multiple fibroids causing pain, heavy bleeding, or pressure
• Severe endometriosis not responding to medication
• Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) that has not responded to other treatments
• Uterine prolapse
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Precancerous or cancerous conditions of the uterus or cervix

You may be a good candidate if:

• Conservative treatments have been tried and have not resolved your symptoms
• You have completed your family or do not plan to become pregnant
• You are in reasonable general health for surgery

This procedure is not suitable if:

• You wish to preserve your fertility
• Your condition can be managed effectively with less invasive treatments

Before your procedure

A detailed consultation reviews your diagnosis, previous treatments, imaging, and symptoms. Your surgeon discusses the surgical approach (laparoscopic, vaginal, or open) and whether your ovaries will be preserved.

On the day

You are admitted to hospital. The procedure takes 1-3 hours under general anaesthesia, depending on the approach and complexity. Your surgeon removes the uterus and cervix through the chosen approach.

Hospital stay (2 nights)

You are monitored for pain, bleeding, and bladder function. A catheter may be in place initially. You are encouraged to mobilise as soon as comfortable. Your surgeon checks your recovery before discharge.

Hotel recovery (5 nights)

After hospital discharge, you transfer to your 5-star hotel. The extended stay allows you to rest, heal, and attend follow-up checks before travelling home. You receive detailed aftercare instructions.

Recovery depends on the surgical approach, laparoscopic recovery is faster than open.

Days 1-3 (hospital): Abdominal discomfort managed with pain relief. Catheter removal (usually day 1-2). Gentle walking is encouraged. Light diet progressing to normal food.

Days 4-7 (hotel): Increasing mobility. Short walks. Pain reduces progressively. Rest remains important.

Weeks 2-4: Most patients manage light activities. Avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle. Driving is usually possible from week 3-4 (laparoscopic) or week 4-6 (open).

Weeks 4-6: Gradual return to normal activities. No heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or sexual intercourse until your surgeon confirms it is safe (usually 6-8 weeks).

Weeks 6-12: Full recovery for most patients. Return to all normal activities including exercise and work.

Important: Avoid heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks to allow internal healing.

Hysterectomy is a common, well-established procedure, but it is major surgery and carries risks that you should understand.

Common effects:

• Abdominal pain and discomfort (resolves over weeks)
• Vaginal discharge or light bleeding for several weeks
• Fatigue during recovery
• Temporary constipation or bladder sensitivity

Less common risks:

• Infection (wound or internal, managed with antibiotics)
• Bleeding requiring intervention (rare)
• Injury to bladder or ureter (rare, approximately 1%)
• Blood clots (DVT), compression stockings and blood thinners are used to prevent this
• Early menopause (if ovaries are removed)

Your surgery is performed by an experienced gynaecological surgeon in a government-licensed hospital with a 2-night hospital stay.