Hysterectomy means the surgical removal of the uterus. In some cases, other accompanying organs such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix are often removed too, depending on the type of hysterectomy being performed. The procedure terminates menstruation and the ability to have a pregnancy.
Hysterectomy is one of the most common types of elective surgeries for women. It is essential for women to be educated about it and that a hysterectomy is not a minor surgery and should not inevitably be chosen as the only treatment and only option for heavy menstrual bleeding. A hysterectomy should be reserved for cases only when conservative treatment options have not worked.
The majority of hysterectomies are performed to take care of conditions such as fibroids (growths inside the uterus), heavy bleeding, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine prolapse and cancer.
The magnitude of a hysterectomy depends on the reason for the surgery. In maximum cases, the entire uterus is removed. The surgeon may also remove the ovaries and the fallopian tubes during the surgery. Once you’ve had a hysterectomy, you’ll seize to have menstrual periods. You’ll also lose the ability to get pregnant.
A hysterectomy is largely very safe, but with any key surgery comes the risk of complications.
Risks associated with hysterectomy include:
Other ongoing complications of hysterectomy include:
Most women do not have complications after a hysterectomy.