While you have probably heard of a hysterectomy or even know someone who has undergone the surgery, you may not know much about the procedure itself. Hysterectomies have been used for years to solve a range of reproductive issues. Use this blog as a resource to explore the science behind hysterectomies and the reasons you might want to consider one for yourself.
If you have considered a hysterectomy or are experiencing symptoms that may be solved by a hysterectomy, come to the OB/GYN practice of Dr. John Macey in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Macey has more than 27 years of experience as an obstetrician and gynecologist and is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He and the rest of our staff are proud to offer state-of-the-art reproductive care for women of all ages.
What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy most commonly refers to the removal of a woman’s uterus. While this is true, there are actually different types of hysterectomies that remove different aspects of the reproductive system depending on the patient’s needs, such as to remove uterine fibroids, stop abnormal vaginal bleeding, or remove ovarian, uterine, or cervical cancer. The three main types are:
- Partial hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus or a portion of the uterus
- Total or complete hysterectomy, which is the removal of the entire uterus and cervix
- Radical hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and possible upper portions of the vagina and affected lymph glands.
Five reasons to consider a hysterectomy
1. Hysterectomies are a proven solution
Hysterectomies as a safe and common procedure. About 600,000 women undergo a hysterectomy every year, and 20 million women in the United States have had a hysterectomy.
2. Most hysterectomies are done laparoscopically
In the past, hysterectomies were done through a regular incision that opened the abdominal cavity. This caused trauma to the abdominal wall and made recovery times significantly longer than they are today. With a camera-assisted laparoscopic surgery, you’ll be at a much lower risk for the following complications:
- Blood clots
- Infections
- Excessive bleeding
- Damage to your urinary tract, bladder, rectum, or other pelvic structures during surgery
The laparoscopic method may also decrease your hospital stay and can lead to less pain and scarring.
3. You suffer from fibroids or painful, heavy periods
A hysterectomy is the only certain, permanent solution for fibroids. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus that can lead to the following symptoms:
- Heavy and/or painful periods
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent urination or constipation
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Anemia
If you’re done having children and suffer from painful fibroid symptoms, a hysterotomy could be a great solution.
4. You have endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue ― the cells that make up the walls of the uterus and become thick with tissue and blood vessels each month in preparation for pregnancy ― grows outside the uterus. It can lead to pain as well as heavy and irregular periods. A hysterectomy can help lessen or eliminate the symptoms.
5. You’re past the child-bearing portion of your family plan
If you’re positive that you’re done having children ― since the procedure will prevent you from having children again ― a hysterectomy may be a solution for the following:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Uncontrollable vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Uterine prolapse
- Adenomyosis
- Cysts
If you want to learn more about what a hysterectomy involves and if one could help you, book an appointment online or over the phone with the practice of Dr. John Macey today.