The uterus or womb is the reproductive organ that facilitates the growth of the baby during pregnancy. Despite its importance for women in their child-bearing years and those looking forward to raising children, medical conditions such as endometrial carcinoma and symptomatic uterine fibroids call for removing the uterus. Hysterectomy may be the only option if you have cancer of the uterus. However, for other medical conditions like fibroids, uterine prolapse, and endometriosis, your doctor may only recommend a hysterectomy in Orlando if you fail to respond to other less invasive treatments such as uterine artery embolization.
What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove the uterus or womb. Hysterectomy falls under different categories depending on the organs which are removed. The different types of hysterectomy include:
- Sub-total hysterectomy. This surgery is the removal of the uterus alone.
- Total hysterectomy. This surgical procedure involves the removal of both the uterus and the cervix.
- Radical hysterectomy. A radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, the cervix, ovaries, parts of the vagina, and the pelvic lymph nodes.
The surgical procedure can also be grouped differently, depending on how the surgeon accesses the uterus. For example:
- Trans-abdominal hysterectomy. The approach is through the abdomen, but the surgeon makes an incision below the umbilicus. It is the most common surgical method because of its easy accessibility.
- Transvaginal hysterectomy. Here, your specialist accesses the uterus through the vagina. Although there is no scar formation with this procedure, it may be challenging for the doctor due to limited space.
Why would I need a hysterectomy?
Some different medical conditions and reasons make hysterectomy an option for you. They include:
- Symptomatic uterine fibroids. Some women can experience excessive bleeding either during the menstrual period or in between periods. Fibroids are the most common cause of bleeding. If you have attained the desired number of children or have reached menopause, hysterectomy may be a suitable procedure for you.
- Cancer of the uterus. Your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy if you have been diagnosed with endometrial carcinoma or sometimes cancer of the cervix. The doctor can remove the uterus as a form of de-bulking cancer so that chemotherapy can be effective.
- Hysterectomy can be used to manage excessive bleeding post vaginal delivery or when the obstetrician fails to achieve homeostasis during a cesarean section delivery. The doctor can remove the uterus to save the mother’s life.
How to prepare for a hysterectomy
Since hysterectomy is major surgery, it is normal for patients to feel anxious before undergoing the procedure. Fortunately, initial consultation with your doctor may help clear any uncertainties that you may have. It is essential to have in mind that hysterectomy ends all the possibilities of getting pregnant. If you plan on having babies in the future, it is best to discuss with your doctor other options.
Complications arising from hysterectomy
During the consultation, your specialist will explain to you what the procedure entails and the risks involved that include:
- Hemorrhage or excessive bleeding
- Sepsis
- Prolapse
- Ureteric injuries damage your bladder, rectum, urinary tract, and other pelvic structures that may require surgical repair.
- Post anesthetic complications
- Psychosocial, sexual dysfunctions
- Persistent pelvic pain
For further inquiries about hysterectomy, consult with your doctor at Contemporary Women’s Care.
