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Let us talk about the predicament of one beautiful lady from Texas, Fannie a friend to many. Well, for some time now, Fannie has had significant issues with her reproductive health. Day after day, she has to worry about pelvic discomfort, heavy bleeding, and excessive pain.
For one reason, she believes that fibroids have exerted pressure on some of her internal organs. Perhaps, this would be the best time for her to visit a San Antonio OB/GYN expert. Unfortunately, the expert says that the only option out of this problem is a hysterectomy.
The truth is, like Fanny, many women out here have gone through this problem. Despite all, the big question will always be whether this option is the only way out. Should you consider it? What information should I have at hand?
In this light, we take a look at some of the priceless insights into what hysterectomy is. Let us take this journey together.
What does hysterectomy entail?
Usually, the removal of one’s uterus is one of the most painful decisions to take. But regardless, this process could still come in handy in saving a life.
To remove the uterus, the doctor could choose to access it through the abdomen or vagina. The decision is usually dependent on the reason for the process.
Further, they will decide whether to pick an open surgery, laparoscopic, or robotic procedure. However, minimally invasive procedures will always need to be a priority.
During this procedure, the surgeon will remove the fallopian tubes as well as ovaries too. As such, you will neither get menstrual periods nor conceive.
Do we have different types of hysterectomy?
A surgeon will often remove the whole or a part of the uterus. It will be dependent on the severity of the condition you have. In this light, three methods have stood out for relatively long now.
- The expert could consider a total hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the whole uterus
- They could also opt for a radical procedure. Here, they will remove the entire uterus, its side tissues, the upper part of the vagina, and the cervix. It is relatively common in cancer cases
- You will also learn about the supracervical procedure. It is also called a subtotal hysterectomy. It involves removing part of the uterus without compromising the cervix
Regardless of the type of procedure, it will be sensible for you to ask whether they will remove the cervix as well as the ovaries. That is because these terms are sometimes used inexactly.
Why you might need this procedure
Usually, one will need to consider careful thought before taking on this procedure. It would be desirable to try different options before ultimately settling on this one. We have various options that could be handier for you, especially if you want to have children. Here are a few common reasons why this procedure will be inevitable.
Benign uterine fibroids are the most significant causes of hysterectomy. Usually, the doctor would recommend various less invasive procedures, including myomectomy, and medications before settling for this surgery. Whereas many women beyond the age of 35 have fibroids, they hardly have symptoms. But once they become predominant, it becomes necessary.
Additionally, different cancers in the reproductive system could result in this procedure. Some of the most causative tumors include those of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, and endometrium. The treatment approach is often dependent on your general health. Besides, the doctor would recommend removing other nearby organs, including fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Endometriosis could also make you vulnerable to this procedure. This condition is where the tissues that line the uterus grow on its outer part. It usually results in extreme pain, irregular periods, and infertility. With this problem, the doctor will try different hormone therapies and medical procedures before opting for hysterectomy.
Further, pelvic inflammatory diseases could force you into getting this procedure. This condition could expose you to extensive pelvic pain. With time, it could spread and damage the uterus so much that the only option would be to remove it.
Have you ever heard that people could have way too much estrogen? Such excessive estrogen could easily make the lining of your womb much thicker. This condition is called hyperplasia. One of its most predominant symptoms is heavy yet irregular menstrual bleeding. It is only after hormone therapies fail that hysterectomy will get considered.
Some women could also end up with uterine prolapse at some point. It happens when the uterus falls from its usual place and into the vagina. It is quite common among those who were born with two vaginas, are obese, or in menopause. The patient will experience pelvic pressure, urinary issues, and bowel issues. For as long as it is severe, a hysterectomy will come in.
What happens after the surgery
Like any other procedure, this surgery has various consequences.
Whereas many people will be worried about their sex life, this procedure will not affect all women. That is because people will always have varying experiences in their sex lives. Sometimes, there are no drastic changes in your relationship.
But it would be best to consult with your spouse before undergoing the procedure. Sometimes, you will be advised to abstain from sex, whether temporarily or permanently.
A hysterectomy will trigger early menopause if they remove your ovaries too. However, you will be sure of periods stopping immediately you undergo the procedure, regardless.
Above all, this surgery will come in handy in dealing with the problem that you have at hand. Whether you were having uterine fibroids or different cancers, you are likely to be much healthier after the procedure.
Risks of hysterectomy
In most cases, there will hardly be too many risks coming with this procedure. However, the following could come up among various patients.
- Chronic pain among many women
- Vaginal prolapse
- The formation of vaginal fistula
- Urinary incontinence
To sum up, hysterectomy has proven to be one of the most effective procedures in handling damaged uteruses. However, taking the time to understand both the process and consequences will always come in handy.
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