Dr Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Registered with Gujarat Medical Council, Reg. No. G-38738
Hernia Surgeon · Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
In short
- Yes, usually. A period does not make hernia surgery less safe, and it is rarely a reason to change the date. Just tell the team.
- Tell the team if your periods are very heavy. Heavy bleeding can lower your blood count, which is checked and treated before a planned operation.
- A pregnancy test is a routine check for women who could be pregnant. It is done on the day or shortly before the operation.
Many women ask whether they should move the date of a hernia operation if their period is due. Some feel shy about raising it.
A period is a normal part of life and the team is used to it. This page explains what matters, and what to tell the team.
Is it safe to operate during a period?
Yes, usually. A period does not make a hernia repair less safe. It does not raise the chance of bleeding from the wound in any way that matters for this operation.
Changing the date only for a period is rarely needed. If you would feel more comfortable choosing another date, you can raise it when you book.
Periods and hernia surgery: what to tell the team
Periods and hernia surgery: what to tell the team
| Situation | Why it matters | What usually happens |
|---|---|---|
| Period on the day of surgery | Only comfort and hygiene | Surgery goes ahead; you wear a pad |
| Very heavy periods | Can lower your blood count | Blood test, and treatment if it is low |
| Period is late | Pregnancy must be ruled out | Pregnancy test before the operation |
| Hormone tablets or pills | Some raise the risk of blood clots | Surgeon advises whether to continue |
| Severe period pain | Can be confused with surgical pain | Tell the team so it is not missed |
Worried about timing your hernia surgery around your cycle? Ask us when you book.
Heavy periods and your blood count
Very heavy periods over months can lower your haemoglobin. This is common and often not noticed. A low count can make you tired and slow your recovery.
A blood test is done before a planned repair. If the count is low, it is treated first. Your gynaecologist may also look at the cause of the heavy bleeding.
Hormone tablets
Some birth control pills and hormone tablets raise the risk of blood clots in the legs. Surgery and lying in bed also raise this risk. Tell your surgeon about every tablet you take. Do not stop any on your own. The team will advise you.
On the day
Your next period after surgery
The stress of an operation can make the next period come early or late, or be heavier than usual. This is common and usually settles by the next cycle. If bleeding is very heavy or does not stop, tell your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Should I postpone hernia surgery if my period comes?
Usually not. A period does not make hernia surgery less safe. Tell the team, and they will make you comfortable.
Can I wear a pad during the operation?
Yes, a pad is usually fine. If you use a tampon or a menstrual cup, ask the nurse whether to remove it before the operation.
Why do I need a pregnancy test before surgery?
It is a routine safety check for women who could be pregnant, because some medicines and scans are avoided in early pregnancy.
I take hormone tablets. Do I need to stop them?
Tell your surgeon about any hormone tablets. Some raise the risk of blood clots, and the team will advise whether to continue them.
Can surgery change my next period?
Yes. The stress of an operation can make the next period early, late or heavier. This usually settles by the following cycle.
Related pages
The main page on this site is hernia surgery in Ahmedabad. These cover the neighbouring questions.
Where to find us
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
Bring your reports. Second opinions are welcome.