A hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, marks a significant change in a person’s life, and understanding the recovery process is important. This article aims to clarify what to expect regarding vaginal spotting during post-hysterectomy recovery.
Understanding Post-Hysterectomy Spotting
Light vaginal spotting or discharge is a common and expected part of the healing process after a hysterectomy. Most people experience some bleeding for several weeks following the procedure.
The primary reason for this spotting is the healing of the vaginal cuff, which is the incision site where the vagina was separated from the cervix or uterus. Dissolving stitches, also known as sutures, contribute to the discharge as the tissues mend. As these internal stitches dissolve, small amounts of old blood or discharge can be released.
The amount of blood loss during the procedure itself can vary depending on the type of hysterectomy performed. For instance, vaginal and laparoscopic surgeries typically involve an average blood loss of 50 to 100 milliliters, while abdominal surgeries may result in slightly over 200 milliliters. It is normal for this bleeding to gradually decrease in intensity as recovery progresses.
How Long Does Spotting Last and What to Expect?
Post-hysterectomy spotting typically lasts for several days to a few weeks. It can sometimes continue for up to six weeks for some individuals as the body fully recovers. The bleeding should generally get lighter over time.
Normal spotting is usually light in flow and may appear pink, brown, or dark red, indicating the presence of old blood. It might come and go, and some individuals report a sudden rush of old blood or fluid around 10 days post-surgery, which should subside quickly. While a slight increase in spotting with activity is possible, it should not progress to heavy bleeding. It is important to use sanitary pads during this recovery period rather than tampons to avoid increasing the risk of infection and discomfort.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Certain signs and symptoms indicate that spotting after a hysterectomy is not normal and requires immediate medical attention. Heavy bleeding, defined as soaking more than one sanitary pad per hour for several hours, is a serious concern. Passing large blood clots also signals excessive bleeding.
A foul-smelling vaginal discharge can indicate an infection. Other warning signs include a fever over 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit, increasing or severe abdominal pain, or any sudden worsening of symptoms like pain that persists despite medication. These symptoms could point to complications such as hemorrhage or a vaginal cuff tear, both of which are rare but serious.