What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of your uterus, or womb. It’s a very common procedure for women in the United States. Once the uterus is removed, you can no longer carry a baby.
During a hysterectomy, the surgeons at Memorial Women's Specialists may also remove your ovaries and fallopian tubes. Removal of your ovaries causes menopause.
Why would I need a hysterectomy?
There are many gynecological conditions that benefit from a hysterectomy. A hysterectomy may be recommended to treat:
- Fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine prolapse
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Gynecological cancer
- Abnormal bleeding
Though a hysterectomy is a treatment option for these conditions, it may only be recommended after noninvasive medical treatments fail to alleviate your symptoms or improve your quality of life.
A hysterectomy is also only recommended if you have no future pregnancy plans.
What techniques are used to perform a hysterectomy?
The surgeons at Memorial Women's Specialists use many techniques to perform a hysterectomy. Surgical options include:
Traditional hysterectomy
During a traditional hysterectomy, your surgeon makes a large incision through your abdomen to gain access to your uterus for removal. The traditional hysterectomy is the most invasive and requires the longest recovery time.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy
During a laparoscopic hysterectomy, your surgeon uses a laparoscope, which is a thin and flexible lighted camera, to assist in removing your uterus.
Instead of one large incision, your surgeon makes a small incision to insert the laparoscope, which transmits images of your abdominal area to a computer screen. Then, your surgeon makes additional incisions to insert the surgical instruments needed to remove your uterus.
With small incisions, you can expect a shorter recovery time following a laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Robot-assisted hysterectomy
A robot-assisted hysterectomy is the most advanced surgical technique. It combines laparoscopic tools and techniques with robotic technology for more precise incisions.
Vaginal hysterectomy
During a vaginal hysterectomy, your surgeon removes your uterus through a small incision made in your vagina.
What can I expect after a hysterectomy?
Recovery time following a hysterectomy depends on the type of procedure performed. Memorial Women's Specialists may recommend you take it easy for several weeks following your hysterectomy.
After your hysterectomy, you no longer menstruate. Some women may feel a sense of loss following the procedure, but many experience a significant relief in their gynecological symptoms that prompted the need for the procedure.
To learn more about your surgical options for hysterectomy, call Memorial Women's Specialists or book an appointment online today.
