This is the medical term for the surgical removal of the uterus. A hysterectomy is a procedure that is usually performed by a gynecologist and can be partial or total. A partial hysterectomy is also referred to as a supracervical hysterectomy and includes the removal of the body while leaving the cervical stump. Total hysterectomy requires the removal of the body, the fundus and the cervix of the uterus. In some instances, a hysterectomy is accompanied by the removal of the fallopian tubes, a process called oophorectomy. In a radical hysterectomy, all of the reproductive organs and even the tissue that covers the entire cervix is removed. This is usually done in women with cervical or endometrial cancer.
There are specific diseases and conditions that require a hysterectomy. These include cervical, uterine or ovarian cancers, the presence of benign masses that threaten the health of the other organs, in cases of placenta previa or placenta accreta ( a placenta that has grown through the wall of the uterus to attach itself to the other organs), to prevent excessive placental bleeding and as a prophylactic treatment for women with a family history of uterine cancers. A hysterectomy is often performed when benign uterine fibroids are too large to remove on their own and they have covered most of the surface area of the uterus. For smaller fibroids, doctors can perform a myomectomy, a procedure where only the benign growth is removed.
Benefits of a Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy can have life-saving benefits especially in time of excessive uterine bleeding as a result of placental retention or the presence of a large benign mass. A hysterectomy can provide relief for the diseases that were affecting the now-removed uterus. In women with benign uterine fibroids, a hysterectomy ca eliminate the pain and discomfort that accompanies the presence of the mass, especially if the mass or the tumor was very large.
Side Effects of a Hysterectomy
The primary side effect of a hysterectomy is early menopause in women below 45. This is not applicable to women who already went through menopause prior to the procedure. Other side effects include osteoporosis and a higher risk for heart disease. Women who undergo the procedure also face the risk of heavy bleeding during surgery.
Recovery after a Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure so you can expect to stay in bed for a day or two in recovery. The length of time that it will take you to recover depends partly on what you do before the procedure. For instance, eating foods rich in fiber will lead to faster recovery of the bowels from the effects of anesthesia. Most doctors will put you on NPO (nothing by mouth) the night before the procedure to make sure that your intestines are empty during the procedure. Early ambulation is also encouraged the moment the effects of the anesthesia have completely worn off. Doctors advise early ambulation to increase the circulation to speed up the healing process. Most women complain of pain the operating site after the effects of anesthesia wear off. This is usually managed by oral painkillers.
