7 Things You Should Know About Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of a woman’s uterus for medical reasons. It is performed by a gynecologist and has become a fairly common surgery among menopausal women. Here are a few lesser known facts about a hysterectomy that you must know, whether or not you are about to go under the knife.
1. Reasons to get a hysterectomy
Reasons to get a hysterectomy are best diagnosed by a doctor, but women commonly get them done because of excessive and unbearable menopausal bleeding. Other reasons why a hysterectomy is recommended include a rupture of the uterus during childbirth, fibroids, uterine prolapse, endometriosis, uterine infections, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammation or the growth of cancerous tumors. Women who want to be permanently unable to have children may also opt for a hysterectomy at a younger age.
2. Types of hysterectomy
There are several types of hysterectomies that your gynecologist will chose from, as per your conditions. A Radical Hysterectomy includes a total removal of the uterus and cervix. A Total Hysterectomy includes the removal of the fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix along with ovaries if required and a Subtotal Hysterectomy includes removal of the uterus without the cervix. Other nuanced types of hysterectomies also exist.
3. Side effects of hysterectomy
Hysterectomies can be extremely relieving for women who have cancerous growths in their uterus or for those women who experience uncontrollable menopausal bleeding. But this surgery is known to have its share of long term side effects too. These include mood swings caused by hormonal imbalance, urinary tract infections, osteoporosis, weight gain, heart ailments and overall fatigue.
4. Alternatives to hysterectomy
Modern researches have noted that many women opt for hysterectomies for a painless and hassle free menopause even though a surgical intervention may not medically recommended. This can cause unnecessary complications. There are a few alternatives to control heavy bleeding, uterine prolapse and fibroids through oral medications and other techniques.
