How long is the recovery time after a total hysterectomy?

After a total hysterectomy, it takes four to six weeks to recover, says WebMD. A minimally invasive procedure, such as a vaginal hysterectomy or laparoscopic hysterectomy, requires a shorter recovery time of three to four weeks.

After a total hysterectomy, a woman may experience menopause sooner than if she did not have the procedure, according to WebMD. If her ovaries were removed during the procedure, she enters menopause. After a total hysterectomy, women are told to avoid lifting heavy objects and avoid having intercourse for six weeks.

A total hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus and cervix, explains Mayo Clinic. When the ovaries and Fallopian tubes are also removed, the procedure is termed a total hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy.