What is Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy operation involves the surgical removal of your uterus and, most likely, your cervix. Depending on the purpose of the surgery, a hysterectomy may include the removal of surrounding organs and tissues, such as your fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Following a hysterectomy, you will be unable to conceive and will not have a monthly cycle anymore.
Types of Hysterectomies
There are different types of hysterectomies. Your doctor will explain the risks, benefits, and possible side effects of each surgery. Ask your doctor if removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes during your hysterectomy would be helpful. The types of hysterectomies include:
Total hysterectomy: The most common type is a total hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the entire uterus as well as the cervix.
Partial hysterectomy: Partial hysterectomy (also known as supracervical hysterectomy) involves removing only the uterus while keeping the cervix intact.
Radical hysterectomy: A radical hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, and upper section of the vagina (typically for cancer therapy).
Also Read: Adenomyosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Reasons for Hysterectomy
The operation can be done for a variety of reasons, including:
- Uterine fibroids causing pain, bleeding, or other difficulties.
- Uterine prolapse, which occurs when the uterus moves from its normal location into the vaginal canal.
- Uterine, cervix, or ovarian cancer
- Endometriosis
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Adenomyosis, which occurs when tissue develops into your uterine wall, causing it to thicken.
- Severe menstrual pain
- Uterine polyps (growths) that keep returning.
- Hyperplasia, that is, when your uterine lining gets overly thick.
- Gender affirmation
Hysterectomy for causes other than cancer is typically considered when alternative treatments have failed.
Surgery Through the Belly (Abdominal Hysterectomy)
- Your uterus is removed via a 6- to 8-inch incision in the abdomen.
- The incision is made between your belly button and your pubic bone, or across the top of your public hairline. The surgeon will close the incision with stitches or staples.
- Surgeons may employ this type when cancer is present, the uterus is significantly enlarged, or the disease has spread to other pelvic sites.
- It usually necessitates a longer hospital stay (two or three days) and a longer recuperation period.
Also Read: What is Bulky Uterus? its Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Laparoscopic or Robotic Hysterectomy
- Similar to an abdominal laparoscopy, your surgeon will use robotic equipment to do the surgery.
- The surgeon performing the surgery inserts a laparoscope through abdominal incisions.
- They place small, thin surgical tools through three to five additional small incisions around your belly button.
- The surgeon controls the robotic arms and equipment.
- The recovery is similar to a laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Read in Detail: Laparoscopy Surgery for Infertility & Blocked Fallopian Tubes
Surgery Through the Vagina
- A surgeon makes an incision in the top of your vagina to remove your uterus. There are no incisions in your abdomen.
- They place dissolvable stitches within your vagina.
- Fewer problems and a faster recovery (up to four weeks).
- People frequently return home the same day after the operation.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Hysterectomy operation is a relatively safe treatment with high success rates. However, the process has the following potential risks and side effects:
- If the ovaries are removed, you may have early menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, or insomnia.
- Excessive bleeding and blood transfusion
- Potential harm to surrounding organs such as the bladder, intestines, ureters, blood vessels, and nerves.
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Scar tissue development
- Hernia
- Pain
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Infection
Healing After Surgery (Recovery)
Most people recover from a hysterectomy within four to six weeks. The type of hysterectomy you underwent and the manner chosen by your surgeon will determine your recovery. Recovery from a vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy takes less time than after an abdominal hysterectomy.
After the procedure, refrain from excessive activities, intercourse, and lifting heavy objects. Your doctor will tell you when you can resume regular activities including work, exercise, and sexual intercourse.
Also Read: Menopause Age: What to Expect & Early Signs
Final Thoughts
A hysterectomy is an intense surgery that is only suggested when other options fail. However, it can save your life if you have certain tumors and relieve severe symptoms from other illnesses. Your doctor can help you balance the advantages and disadvantages of a hysterectomy, should you ever require it.
FAQs on Hysterectomy
What is the surgery called for uterus removal?
A hysterectomy is a surgery that removes the uterus. After a hysterectomy, you will not be able to menstruate or conceive a pregnancy. Uterus removal is a standard therapy for a range of disorders affecting a woman’s reproductive system.
What are the side effects of uterus removal?
A hysterectomy, or uterine removal, can result in a number of side effects, including discomfort, pain, vaginal bleeding, changes in bowel movements, and emotional repercussions.
What happens if the uterus is removed?
Following a hysterectomy, you will no longer be able to conceive or have periods. You may also face early menopause, bone health difficulties, and mood swings.
What body changes occur after uterus removal?
After a hysterectomy, you should expect changes to your periods, sexual emotions, and an increased risk of bone loss, heart disease, and urinary incontinence.
How long does a hysterectomy surgery take?
A hysterectomy can take between one and four hours, depending on the type of procedure used and how it is conducted.
Can a hysterectomy cause cancer?
A hysterectomy does not cause cancer, although it does raise the risk of some forms of cancer. The risk varies according to the type of hysterectomy and other circumstances.
Does a hysterectomy stop periods?
Yes, a hysterectomy will stop your periods. The surgery prevents menstruation by removing the uterus, from where periods originate.
Does a hysterectomy cause weight gain?
A hysterectomy can raise the chance of weight gain in the first year following surgery, but it does not necessarily result in weight gain.
Can a hysterectomy cure endometriosis?
Endometriosis is not an uterine issue, hence a hysterectomy cannot heal it. However, a hysterectomy can help ease pain and may be a choice if alternative treatments are ineffective.
