Hysterectomy - What Is It?

What is a hysterectomy and why do you need it?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, which is a muscular organ that carries and nourishes the baby during pregnancy. This surgery may be done to remove all or parts of the uterus; if there are any associated problems in fallopian tubes/ ovaries, they may also be removed simultaneously, during hysterectomy.

Types of hysterectomy procedures

Hysterectomy may be done through surgical cuts in the belly, known as abdominal hysterectomy or through vaginal hysterectomy where the uterus is removed through the vagina. Majority of the hysterectomies are now done with laproscope, due to the advantage of faster recovery. Which procedure is chosen will depend on why the hysterectomy is being performed along with the medical history of the patient.

Depending on the reason of the surgery, removal of the whole uterus or just parts of it may be required. The types of surgery are:

• Partial hysterectomy is the removal of just the uterus while keeping the cervix in place
• Total hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and cervix
• Radical hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, lymph nodes, cervix and the upper part of the vagina, and is generally only advised in cases of cancer
• Oophorectomy is the removal of ovaries and it may be done with a hysterectomy

Why is it needed?

There may be many reasons to have a hysterectomy and some of them include:

Heavy periods

These may be very uncomfortable and painful, sometimes caused by other diseases. A hysterectomy may be opted for when all other treatments have failed to treat this condition.

Fibroids

They are non-malignant tumors in the uterus that cause constant bleeding, anemia and pelvic pain along with bladder pressure. They may also cause very heavy periods.

Endometriosis

It is a condition where the tissue lining the uterus also grows on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic or abdominal organs. It causes severe abdominal pain, heavy periods and sometimes even infertility.

Uterine prolapse

When the tissues and ligaments supporting the uterus become weak, the uterus may slip down from its normal position and descend into the vagina. It can result in urinary incontinence (leakage of urine), pressure in the pelvis and problems in bowel movements.

Cancer of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tube, cervix or the lining of the uterus (endometrium)

A hysterectomy may be recommended for these types of cancers. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!