Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is an operation that is commonly performed. Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of a woman's uterus. Hysterectomy is performed to relieve different pain and/or discomfort from illnesses or diseases. Hysterectomy is an inpatient procedure — meaning you're admitted to the hospital to have it done. Hysterectomy is generally very safe, but with any major surgery comes the risk of complications. Hysterectomy is usually performed for problems with the uterus itself or problems with the entire female reproductive complex. Hysterectomy is major surgery, no matter how it is done. Hysterectomy is the second most common operation performed on women in the United States.

Uterus
The removal of the uterus is done through the vagina, through the vagina assisted by laparoscopy or through the abdomen: Abdominal hysterectomy. This procedure allows the surgeon to easily reach the uterus and Fallopian tubes, in particular, in the case of a radical hysterectomy. When the uterus is removed, other organs, such as the intestines and bladder can descend towards the bottom and lead to problems of constipation and/or urinary incontinence (problems or inability to control one's bladder). For some women, losing their uterus means losing their femininity.

Vaginal
Vaginal Hysterectomy. In vaginal hysterectomy, the surgery is done through the vagina. Vaginal hysterectomyIn a vaginal hysterectomy, the surgeon reaches your uterus by making a circular incision around the cervix. Vaginal hysterectomy is a preferred option for many women as it avoids the need for a long abdominal cut. Vaginal radical hysterectomy versus abdominal radical hysterectomy in the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer. Vaginal hysterectomy requires more specialized surgical skill than an abdominal hysterectomy. Vaginal hysterectomy offers the benefits of a certain cure for dysfunctional bleeding, and large studies have shown a quicker recovery and fewer complications after it than after abdominal hysterectomy.

Uterine
Uterine Prolapse: Sagging of the uterus into the vagina. Uterine prolapse can lead to urinary incontinence, a feeling of pelvic pressure, or difficulty with bowel movements. Uterine fibroids are benign growths of the uterus, the cause of which is unknown. Uterine prolapse can lead to urinary incontinence, pelvic pressure or difficulty with bowel movements. Uterine fibroids (also known as uterine leiomyomata) are by far the most common reason a hysterectomy is performed. Uterine manipulators are vaginally placed instruments which move the uterus to various angles to aid in surgery.

Since hysterectomy is a major surgical and permanent procedure, it is important to ask any questions you may have and make sure you receive clear answers so you can make the choice that best meets your needs. Find out how hysterectomy is done, what you can expect during recovery and what alternatives to hysterectomy exist. Don't hesitate to get a second opinion if you're not certain that hysterectomy is your best option.