Physicians for Women > Patient Education > FAQ - Surgery

A hysterectomy is an operation to remove a woman's uterus. Sometimes the fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix are removed at the same time the uterus is removed.

There is a risk of aspiration of stomach content into the lung while under anesthesia. There are some exceptions for small infants and patients under monitored anesthesia care, i.e. not general anesthesia. Patients will be given that information by their physician prior to surgery.

The pre-op phase is a time for patient and family education is crucial to assuring positive post-op outcomes. This education takes time and requires family involvement. Most patients are distracted at this time, and may not retain all the information being given to them. We rely on family members to reinforce what is taught both before and after surgery. This is also the time for patients to meet the surgical team, including nurses, nurse anesthetists and the anesthesiologist.

Family involvement is crucial. Patients recover in the comfort of their home instead of the hospital and family members must understand post-operative instructions and care procedures because patients themselves will still experience the effects of anesthesia after they return home.

Drowsiness, nausea, unsteadiness and lightheadedness are some of the possible conditions you may experience. Because anesthesia can sometimes cause memory lapses, patients are instructed not to sign important documents or operate machinery, including driving a car or cooking at the stove. Patients should have someone to be watchful of them upon their return home after outpatient surgery.

No, however, your physician will order post-op pain medication to keep the pain at an acceptable level. It is important to follow the physician's directions on the use of post-op pain medications and to report any complications or side effects immediately.