All About Hysterectomy |

A hysterectomy by definition is the removal of all or parts of the uterus. Hysterectomy is done to treat cancers in the female reproductive system. It is also used in cases of uterine fibroids and endometriosis. There are three types of hysterectomies.

Supracervical Hysterectomy: This type of hysterectomy also goes by the names subtotal hysterectomy and partial hysterectomy. In this type just the uterus is removed but the cervix is left.
Total Hysterectomy: remove everything, uterus and cervix.
Radical Hysterectomy: It removes all the reproductive organs such as uterus, cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

If a hysterectomy needs to be performed there are three ways to do it. Most of them are pretty simple and minimally evasive.

Laparoscopic: This type of hysterectomy is done with a laparscope and small lighted medical instruments and with various other small surgical implements. 3 tiny incisions are made in the abdomen and the physician will go in with laparscope and remove the necessary parts. You can expect to spend 1-3 days in the hospital and a few weeks of recuperation afterwards.
Vaginal: This one is pretty self-explanatory. The doctor will make a small incision in the vagina to remove the necessary organs. The hospital stay is also 1-3 days and a few weeks of recuperation afterwards.
Abdominal: This is the most evasive of three. An incision is made from the pubic bone to the belly button. Then they make a horizontal cut across the pubic bone. They will then remove the uterus and cervix and possibly other reproductive organs if necessary. This hysterectomy can have you the hospital for 3 to 6 days. Recovery time ranges anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks.

If you have to have hysterectomy speak openly with your doctor about what to expect. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

Source: Pelvic Health Solutions

Image c/o Greater Houston Gynecology

Blog sponsored by Dr. Khazaei

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