Surgery for womb cancer

The surgical treatment for womb cancer is the removal of the womb (hysterectomy|) and is carried out by a gynaecological surgeon. Usually, the fallopian tubes and both ovaries will also be removed. This operation is called a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Sometimes the lymph nodes close to the womb will also be removed. The reason for this extra surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible and to enable the pathologist to see if there are any cancer cells in the lymph glands.

Often it is possible for the gynaecologist to remove all the cancer at this operation so that no further treatment is necessary. However, if the cancer cannot be completely removed your surgeon may recommend you have radiotherapy| treatment after the operation. Even if the whole tumour has been removed, radiotherapy is sometimes given to reduce the chance of the cancer coming back. If radiotherapy is necessary, your surgeon will refer you to a clinical oncologist (a doctor who specialises in radiotherapy treatment).

Drips and drains Back to top

When you get back to the ward you will have a drip (intravenous infusion) in a vein in your arm until you are able to eat and drink normally. You may have drainage tubes in the wound to stop any excess fluid collecting. These are taken out within a few days. Usually a small tube (catheter) is put into your bladder and urine is drained into a collecting bag.

Moving around Back to top

You will be encouraged to start moving about as soon as possible. This is an essential part of your recovery, and even if you have to stay in bed the nurses will encourage you to do regular leg movements to prevent blood clots in your legs. You will also be shown how to do deep-breathing exercises to prevent chest infections. A physiotherapist will help you to do these exercises.

Pain Back to top

After your operation you may need regular painkillers, which are very effective at controlling any pain. If you still have pain it is important to let your nurses know as soon as possible, so that your painkillers can be changed to find a type and dose that is more effective for you.

Going home Back to top

Most women are ready to go home about four to six days after their operation. If you think you might have problems when you go home – for example, if you live alone or have several flights of stairs to climb – let the ward nurses, or social worker, know as soon as possible so that help can be arranged.

Sex Back to top

Although you will no longer have your monthly periods or be able to become pregnant (see our section on fertility|), you will, when you are ready, be able to be sexually active again. Your surgeon will probably advise you not to have sexual intercourse for at least six weeks after your operation, to allow the wound to heal properly. Many women need more time before they are ready to have a sexual relationship. If you have any questions about these issues, don’t be afraid to discuss them with your GP, surgeon, specialist nurse or one of our cancer support specialists|. 

Our section on sexuality and cancer| discusses ways of dealing with the physical and emotional changes that cancer treatment can cause.

Physical activity Back to top

After a hysterectomy it can take time for the abdominal (tummy) muscle and skin to heal. Because of this you will need to avoid strenuous physical activity, or heavy lifting, for about two months. Some women also find it uncomfortable to drive after their operation. It is a good idea to wait a few weeks before you start driving again. Some insurance companies have guidelines about this, and you may wish to contact your own company or the DVLA (Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Association)| for advice.

Support Back to top

Before you leave hospital, you will be given an appointment to attend an outpatient clinic for your post-operative check-up. This will be a good time to discuss any problems that you may have had since your operation. Some women take longer than others to recover from their operation.

If you find you are having problems, it may be helpful to talk to someone who is not directly associated with your illness. Our cancer support specialists| will always be happy to talk to you. They may be able to put you in touch with local or national support groups, where you can talk to other women going through a similar situation. Some women find it very helpful to see a counsellor, and we can give you contact details for counselling services around the country.