Hysterectomy Specialist

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a woman’s uterus. It’s a common procedure for women in their 40s or 50s. After a hysterectomy, you will not be able to get pregnant. If you have not already gone through menopause, you will no longer get menstrual periods. 

The different types of hysterectomy are:

Total hysterectomy

The uterus and the cervix are removed.

Subtotal hysterectomy

The main portion of the uterus is removed, leaving just the cervix in place.

Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy

The uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are removed.

Radical hysterectomy

The uterus and surrounding tissues are removed, including the cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, parts of the vagina, lymph glands, and fatty tissue.

What are signs that I need a hysterectomy?

Hysterectomies are performed for a variety of reasons on women experiencing reproductive abnormalities. Some reasons include:

• Heavy periods
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Fibroid tumors (non-cancerous tumors)
• Cancer affecting the uterus, ovaries, cervix, or fallopian tubes

A hysterectomy is a major surgery with a significant recovery time and only done as a last resort. When deciding on what type of hysterectomy to have, it depends on your personal feelings, your medical history, and the recommendations from your doctor.

How is a hysterectomy performed?

A hysterectomy can be performed in three ways:

Laparoscopic hysterectomy

The uterus is removed through several small cuts in the abdomen.

Vaginal hysterectomy

The uterus is removed through a cut in the top of the vagina.

Abdominal hysterectomy

The uterus is removed through a large cut in the lower abdomen.

Some risks of a hysterectomy include bleeding, infection, damage to your bladder or bowel, and reaction to anesthesia. These risks will be monitored both before and after the surgery.

It takes about 6-8 weeks to recover from a hysterectomy fully, and you may stay in the hospital for up to five days after the surgery. Recovery time also depends on the type of hysterectomy you have.

If you’d like to explore your options regarding hysterectomy treatment, call our office today or schedule online. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.