Question: I had a hysterectomy last month. I’m still having bleeding. When is bleeding normal after a hysterectomy?
Answer: Some bleeding after a hysterectomy is normal. In the 6 to 8 weeks following the procedure, some bleeding or spotting is to be expected. A hysterectomy is a major surgery and tissues may have been removed from several different areas, providing many opportunities for small amounts of bleeding.
The key with normal bleeding is that it should decrease as you heal. For example, if you were bleeding less each day during your first week of recovery, then the next day you had a significant increase in bleeding, that is abnormal bleeding and should be reported to your surgeon.
Heavy bleeding in the recovery phase is not considered normal and should be reported to the surgeon immediately. Bright red blood, which is “fresh” blood, indicates a current source of bleeding.
If you do experience spotting or bleeding during your recovery, be sure to mention it to your surgeon during your follow up visit.
Bleeding After Hysterectomy Recovery
For the most part, spotting or bleeding that occurs well after recovery (beyond 6 to 8 weeks) should be reported to your gynecologist. It can be a sign of a serious problem and should be followed up with an examination. The one exception to this is the regular period experienced by women who have a subtotal hysterectomy.
Bleeding, Sex and Hysterectomy
You should be able to return to having sex 6 to 8 weeks after your surgery. If you note any bleeding after having intercourse, be sure to mention it to your obgyn.
Everything You Need To Know About Hysterectomy Surgery
Sources:
Does Any Advantage Result From Subtotal Hysterectomy? American Family Physician. Accessed January 28, 2009 http://www.aafp.org/afp/20030315/tips/26.html
Hysterectomies. National Institutes of Health http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002915.htm
Spotting, despite hysterectomy, never considered “normal”. Dr. Peter Gott. The Daily Herald. Accessed January 28, 2009 https://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=184007
