What are the negative effects of having a hysterectomy?
William Rodriguez
Published Jan 12, 2026
What problems can a hysterectomy cause?
As with all types of surgery, a hysterectomy can sometimes lead to complications.
- general anaesthetic complications.
- bleeding.
- ureter damage.
- bladder or bowel damage.
- infection.
- blood clots.
- vaginal problems.
- ovary failure.
Why you shouldn't get a hysterectomy?
For many women, the biggest drawback to a hysterectomy is loss of fertility. Once you have a hysterectomy, you cannot conceive, and for many women of childbearing age, this is a significant loss. Women who feel pushed into a hysterectomy may also have a negative reaction to it.How does a woman's body change after a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy with an oophorectomy can cause several age-related issues, including bone mineral loss, dementia, and Parkinsonism. What's more, the sudden loss of estrogen can lead to other health issues, like coronary heart disease, stroke, and depression. A hysterectomy alone can also cause changes in your body.Are there any downsides to a hysterectomy?
Con: hysterectomy is a major surgeryThe procedure is classified as a 'major surgery' and around 3% of recipients experience a major complication. ³ Major complications include hemorrhage, bowel injury, bladder injury, pulmonary embolism, adverse reactions to anesthesia, wound dehiscence, and hematoma.
New Study Looks At Long-Term Effects Of Hysterectomies
Will a hysterectomy cause weight gain?
It's a fairly prevalent post-op side effect, even in the absence of adjustments to diet or physical activity level. A Journal of Women's Health study concluded that there is indeed a greater chance of weight gain after a hysterectomy, especially in the first year.Does having a hysterectomy age you?
Having a hysterectomy is a big change for your body. Depending on where you are in your menopause journey, this type of procedure can cause hormonal changes resulting in different side effects. A hysterectomy by itself usually doesn't affect your hormones and aging as much.Can a man feel when a woman has had a hysterectomy?
Some husbands worry their wives may feel different or no longer express interest in them. The reality is that sex after hysterectomy for the man may feel surprisingly similar. In all procedures, the surgeon takes steps to maintain vaginal functionality.Will I have a flat stomach after hysterectomy?
Internal lower abdominal and pelvic swelling can take a number of months to subside after a hysterectomy. Abdominal hysterectomy and abdominal incisions can cause the deep abdominal muscles to stop working. When these muscles stop working, this can make your belly look floppy and larger in size.Does your stomach get bigger after hysterectomy?
You will probably notice that your belly is swollen and puffy. This is common. The swelling will take several weeks to go down. It may take about 4 to 6 weeks to fully recover.Does your skin change after hysterectomy?
Skin Changes After a HysterectomyPost-hysterectomy, some women report increased oiliness and breakouts while others experience skin dryness. The type of hysterectomy one's undergone and whether they are using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) plays a major role in the skin's reaction.
Do your hips widen after hysterectomy?
The uterine ligaments are the pelvis' support structures so the torso collapses after those ligaments are cut to remove the uterus. The hips widen and the spine and rib cage fall. This explains why hysterectomized women have shortened and thickened midsections and no curve in their lower backs.What fills the space after a hysterectomy?
The bottom lineAfter any type of hysterectomy, your small and large intestines will fill most of the space your uterus previously occupied.