Health Information
Hysterectomy
Preparing for a Hysterectomy
Before a hysterectomy, you may have:
- A physical exam, during which your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history.
- A Reference pelvic examination.
- Blood tests.
- An Reference electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which measures the electrical signals that control the rhythm of your heartbeat, if you are over the age of 40 or have Reference diabetes Opens New Window or Reference high blood pressure Opens New Window.
- A meeting with the doctor who will do the hysterectomy. During this meeting, the doctor will explain how the surgery will be done, where the Reference surgical incisions will be made, and the risks and expected outcomes of the surgery. You will probably receive written instructions about how to prepare for surgery at this time.
- A meeting with an Reference anesthesiologist Opens New Window or nurse anesthetist. During this meeting, you will discuss the Reference types of anesthetic Opens New Window recommended for use during the surgery. You may not meet with this person until the day of your surgery.
Your doctor may order additional tests based on your physical exam and medical history. These tests may include:
- A Reference pregnancy test if you have not reached Reference menopause Opens New Window.
- Urine tests, such as Reference urinalysis, to check for any signs of Reference urinary tract infection Opens New Window.
- A Reference chest X-ray, for a general evaluation before using Reference general anesthesia Opens New Window.
- Reference Blood typing, in case you should need a blood transfusion (which is rare).
- Reference Blood clotting Opens New Window studies, if you tend to have excessive bleeding or a history of Reference deep vein thrombosis Opens New Window.
See a list of Reference questions to ask your doctor when you are considering hysterectomy.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference January 9, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
