Hysterectomy Specialist

What’s a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a procedure in which the doctor removes some or all of the patient’s reproductive organs. Two primary types of hysterectomy procedures are possible: vaginal hysterectomy and abdominal hysterectomy.

What’s a vaginal hysterectomy?

During a vaginal hysterectomy, the surgeon removes the uterus through the vagina. This option offers a shorter recovery period, less time in the hospital, and a lower cost than an abdominal hysterectomy. In addition, vaginal hysterectomy doesn’t require an incision or a scar. However, patients who have an enlarged uterus may not be good candidates for vaginal hysterectomy.

What’s an abdominal hysterectomy?

During an abdominal hysterectomy, the surgeon removes the uterus through an incision in the patient’s abdomen. Although this procedure is more invasive than a vaginal hysterectomy, it may be the best option for patients with a large uterus or other characteristics that make a vaginal hysterectomy impossible.

When is a hysterectomy necessary?

The doctors at Capital Women’s Care recommend a hysterectomy to patients who have certain conditions that don’t respond to other types of treatment. Some common examples of conditions that may require a hysterectomy include chronic pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, uterine prolapse, endometriosis, fibroid tumors, or certain types of cancer.

What are the risks of a hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure, and therefore some complications are possible. Patients who undergo hysterectomy may experience reactions to anesthesia, damage to nearby organs, bleeding, infection, and blood clots. When the ovaries are removed, hysterectomy also leads to surgical menopause. Even if the surgeon leaves the ovaries in place, the patient may still experience an earlier menopause because of the missing uterus. Pregnancy isn't possible following a hysterectomy.

What are the alternatives to hysterectomy?

Many of the conditions treated with hysterectomy will respond to alternative therapies. For example, patients with uterine fibroids may benefit from medications or less invasive surgeries. Likewise, patients with abnormal bleeding may respond to endometrial ablation. Finding an alternative treatment is especially important for any patient that hopes to become pregnant in the future. The doctors at Capital Women’s Care discuss various treatment options with each individual patient so that she can make the choice that’s right for her.