When might you need a hysterectomy? Hysterectomy is a treatment for female reproductive issues, such as fibroids, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. It is usually not the first treatment option, especially if you are still not done with childbearing. However, your provider takes you through the risks and complications involved, to help you make the best decision. The hysterectomy Orlando specialist at Contemporary Women’s Care offers minimally invasive procedures to help patients find relief from their symptoms. This blog post explains what hysterectomy is all about.
What is a hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus. Your health provider may recommend a hysterectomy as a treatment for uterine fibroids, gynecologic cancer, endometriosis, and other conditions causing pain and heavy bleeding. The treatment provides permanent results, restoring your health.
Hysterectomy may also include the removal of ovaries, cervix, or fallopian tubes, depending on the condition treated.
There are three types of hysterectomies.
Total hysterectomy
It is among the most usual forms of hysterectomy. Your provider performs a total hysterectomy by removing the whole uterus and cervix. In some cases, they may also remove ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Partial hysterectomy
In this type of hysterectomy, your surgeon removes the upper part of the uterus without touching the cervix. Partial hysterectomy may also involve the removal of ovaries if necessary.
Radical hysterectomy
Radical hysterectomy is a surgical procedure where your provider removes all your reproductive organs, including ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and cervix. They may also remove the upper part of the vaginal tissues surrounding the cervix. The Contemporary Women’s Care team performs radical hysterectomy when treating cervical cancer.
The surgeons usually use minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques to perform hysterectomies whenever possible. With laparoscopic procedures, your provider only makes a few tiny incisions in your abdomen rather than one large cut. The small incisions enhance faster recovery and lower your risk of infection.
Does a hysterectomy cause menopause?
Your menstrual period stops after a hysterectomy. If the ovaries are still there, the body continues to produce the hormones to block menopausal symptoms. However, you may experience menopause symptoms earlier compared to an average woman.
When your surgeon removes the ovaries during hysterectomy, menopausal symptoms begin immediately.
What is recovery from hysterectomy like?
You may spend one or two days in the hospital after the hysterectomy procedure. For cancer treatment or open surgery, you may have a longer hospital stay. The Contemporary Women’s Care team provides you with all the care and support you need during your hospital stay.
Your provider gives instructions to enhance your full recovery at home. They also advise on when to resume your physical activity or work routine.
How can you benefit from a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy helps relieve pain, among other uncomfortable symptoms such as heavy bleeding. It may help you live a longer and happier life. Hysterectomy may lower your risk for uterine cancer and save your life.
Hysterectomy may be beneficial, but it comes with its disadvantages too. For instance, you might not get pregnant after the procedure, and menopause symptoms may start right away.
Contact Contemporary Women’s Care today to schedule your consultation and learn more about hysterectomy.
