A hysterectomy is a procedure to partially or completely remove the uterus. Every year there are half a million hysterectomies in the United States. A hysteroscopy is a diagnostic technique to check for uterine anomalies. Here are cases where you may need a San Diego hysteroscopy.
Excessive menstrual bleeding and pain
Heavy menstrual bleeding is described as bleeding that lasts for more than a week. A hysterectomy could be the best option for some cases of heavy menstrual bleeding.
Even though most cases of heavy bleeding are harmless, a hysterectomy is necessary where the womb is affected. The uterus may have problems like endometrial tissue growth. In such cases, a hysterectomy procedure is crucial in addressing heavy bleeding.
Nevertheless, researchers suggest patients should explore other options when the condition does not affect the uterus. One alternative is LNG-IUS (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system), an intrauterine system that releases the female hormone levonorgestrel.
To remove endometrial tissue
Endometriosis is a condition where uterine-like tissues grow outside the uterus. The endometrial tissue can have far-reaching implications for the patient. It can grow on the bowels, pelvis, and ovaries, causing pain and other complications.
A hysteroscopy can check for signs of endometriosis, such as back pain and menstrual cramps. The uterus and the cervix are removed when one undergoes a total hysterectomy. But a total hysterectomy could lead to recurring cases of endometriosis.
Research studies show a hysterectomy with oophorectomy has better outcomes for patients with endometriosis. Oophorectomy involves the removal of one or both ovaries. Only 10% of the people with endometriosis had recurring pain after a hysterectomy and oophorectomy. That is compared to 61% of those who had a hysterectomy alone.
Treatment for fibroids
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths on the lining of the uterus. It is one of the most prevalent tumors that affect the female reproductive organs. Symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, cramps, frequent urination, and digestion problems.
A hysterectomy can address some symptoms, like heavy menstrual bleeding. It may not alleviate pain or menstrual cramps. But it is highly effective at resolving recurring cases of fibroids. The fibroids hardly grow on or around the uterus after a hysterectomy.
To address gynecologic cancer
Gynecological cancer refers to cancerous tumors that start in the reproductive system. It may include cervical, vaginal, ovarian, and vulvar cancer. Early detection is critical for ensuring the best treatment outcomes. If treated in the early stages, cervical cancer has a 95% five-year survival rate.
A hysterectomy procedure is sometimes the only way to extract a cancerous tumor. Sometimes cancer spreads to other organs like the ovaries. Removing the uterus and ovary prevents cancerous growth from spreading to other critical organs in your body.
Hysterectomy is ideal for patients with early-stage gynecological cancer. At later stages, the tumor spreads to other parts of the body and tends to regrow.
You may want to explore alternative treatments with your provider if you intend to get pregnant. Your doctor can suggest other options that do not involve removing the uterus. However, that will depend on the stage of tumorous growth.
To schedule a hysteroscopy, contact Gen 5 Fertility to book a consultation today.
