What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of a woman’s uterus. In the past, hysterectomies have mainly been performed by open abdominal surgeries, but have since shifted towards newer techniques such as the vaginal hysterectomy, the laparoscopic hysterectomy, or the robotic hysterectomy. All of these techniques are minimally invasive and allow for reduced recovery times, less postoperative pain, and decreased blood loss and risk of infection.
Why should anyone have a hysterectomy performed?
There are many reasons a woman may choose to have a hysterectomy performed. A hysterectomy can be performed to treat:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine prolapse
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Gynecological cancer
What are the effects of having a hysterectomy performed?
After a hysterectomy is performed, a woman can no longer become pregnant. If the ovaries are also removed, a woman will enter menopause if she has not already. This can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis. For more information on menopause, please see the previous blog post titled, “Is this menopause?” Immediately after a hysterectomy, a woman may experience, pain, vaginal bleeding and discharge, constipation, and difficulty with urination.
Are tubal ligation and a hysterectomy the same thing?
No. While a hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus, tubal ligation requires the removal or cutting of the fallopian tubes. Tubal ligation is a form of permanent sterilization that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. It is one of the most popular forms of birth control.
All information is provided by:
American College of Obstretitions and Gynecologists – Hysterectomy FAQs
American College of Obstretitions and Gynecologists – Sterilization by Laparoscopy FAQs
OBGYN University of Colorado – Minimal Invasive Hysterectomy
