Hysterectomy

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure your gynecologist uses to remove your uterus, and sometimes your ovaries and fallopian tubes as well. If your ovaries are taken out, you’ll enter menopause and experience symptoms associated with it. For that reason, some women opt to have just their uterus, or womb, removed.

Why might I need a hysterectomy?

You might require or desire a hysterectomy for numerous reasons. Your OB/GYN physician may encourage surgery if you have:

• Uterine, ovarian, or cervical cancer
• Fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Uterine prolapse
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Abnormal or heavy menstrual bleeding

You might desire a hysterectomy if you no longer want to have children, as the surgery ends your chance of becoming pregnant.

What should I expect during the procedure?

Your doctor offers various hysterectomy procedures and recommends one that best matches your needs based on your preference, health, and medical condition. You might be put to sleep during the procedure, or given local anesthesia so you’re awake but can’t feel any pain. Different types of hysterectomies include:

Traditional open hysterectomy

During a traditional open hysterectomy, your provider makes a 6-12 inch incision in your abdominal wall to remove your uterus in a more traditional way. While this approach is more invasive than other hysterectomies, it might be medically necessary in some instances.

Vaginal hysterectomy

Your doctor removes your uterus through your vagina during a vaginal hysterectomy. This approach uses small incisions and is less invasive than a traditional open hysterectomy.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy

A robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy uses state-of-the-art robotic technology to allow your surgeon a full view of surrounding organs and more precise control during the procedure. Benefits of robotic-assisted hysterectomies are you’ll experience less pain after the procedure, fewer complications, reduced blood loss, fewer scars, and a faster recovery.

Which procedure is right for me?

After discussing the risks and benefits of hysterectomy procedures with you, your doctor recommends one that best matches your needs. The OB/GYN physicians at Dr. DeLeon’s Woman’s Health Care are the best in the area and trustworthy of your surgical care. Call to schedule an appointment today.