Hysterectomy: The Basics

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN

A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus, also known as the womb. Hysterectomy can treat symptoms like heavy periods, fibroids, pelvic organ prolapse and cancerous or pre-cancerous conditions. Women who have a hysterectomy will no longer have the ability to become pregnant.

There are three different kinds of surgery for hysterectomy:

•    Abdominal hysterectomy, performed through an incision in the belly. For an abdominal hysterectomy, the cervix can be removed or left in place.

•    Laparoscopic hysterectomy, performed by a tiny camera and tools through small openings in the belly. The uterus is removed a small portion at a time through one of these small incisions. The cervix can be left or removed, and in most cases women can be back to normal capacity after about two weeks of recovery time.

•    Vaginal hysterectomy, done via cuts inside the vagina. Vaginal hysterectomy leaves no visible scars and can be done laparoscopically. For a vaginal hysterectomy, the cervix must be removed.

During a hysterectomy, doctors sometimes also remove the ovaries, the organs that produce female hormones including estrogen and progesterone.  A subsequent supplemental hormone program is called for in this case. Removal of ovaries depends upon several variables for patients, including age and an assessment of how living without ovaries might affect you.

In women who have not been through menopause, having the ovaries removed can lead to hot flashes, bone loss, and other problems. In women of any age, having the ovaries removed can sometimes also reduce interest in sex. On the other hand, women who have health problems that get worse at certain times in the menstrual cycle sometimes feel better without their ovaries. Plus, in rare cases, the ovaries can develop cancer, so women sometimes choose to have them removed.  A qualified obstetrics and gynecology specialist can help you evaluate the pros and cons of ovary removal with hysterectomy. 

Studies show that women can have happy, full lives after a hysterectomy. Many women feel better after the surgery, because they no longer have the symptoms that previously impacted their quality of life.

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN
A Center for Women's Care, P.C.
970-384-2000
www.womens-carepc.com
Glenwood Springs