Hysterectomy procedure?

[Ninafak]

Hi
I was sterilised 3 and half years ago, and have been experiencing bad cramps and heavy flow for the past few months.
I was wondering if I should go for hysterectomy.
Has any of you had that done? What’s the procedure like? Do I go to my doctor who will refer me or how does it work? Was there a long wait?
And also, what type of procedure was used, incisions, laparoscopic or through the vagina?

Many thanks

You can't 'ask' for a hysterectomy. They are done far less these days. If the problem is heavy bleeding, you will be offered options first like drugs, the Mirena coil or an ablation. Most good gynaes will try at least one or more first.

You need to see your GP to discuss how to control the bleeding, but it's unlikely anyone reputable will perform a major operation 'just like that' and without trying other things first.

I had a hysterectomy under the exact same circumstances as you've got. I was 35 at the time . It was done vaginally, which was the best way as far as I could ascertain. When it is done that way, you don't have any abdominal incision at all, so there is a much quicker recovery time. I was out of bed the next day, and home a few days later. I went back to work ( registered nurse, fairly heavy work) exactly a month later.

See your GP and ask for a referral to a gynaecologist. He / she will assess you and make the decision. Good luck !

One factor is your age. If you are over 45 and this is part of peri menopause, other options will be tried first. A lot has changed over 10 years in the treatment of heavy periods.
Hysterectomy comes with risks, including prolapse and early menopause.

Check out the NHS website on 'Heavy periods' or 'heavy bleeding' and the options are explained there.