What is Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a woman’s uterus (womb). Depending on the condition being treated, it may also involve removing the cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other surrounding structures. After a hysterectomy, you will no longer have menstrual periods, and you cannot become pregnant.
A hysterectomy can be life-changing and often relieves symptoms that impact daily life. However, it is a major surgery, and the decision should be made after thorough consultation with your gynecologist, understanding all alternatives and implications.
Why is Hysterectomy Done? (Symptoms/Conditions Indicating Hysterectomy)
Doctors may recommend a hysterectomy if you have:
- Uterine fibroids causing pain, bleeding, or other problems
- Heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding not controlled by other treatments
- Endometriosis (uterine lining growing outside the uterus)
- Adenomyosis (uterine lining grows into the uterine wall)
- Uterine prolapse (uterus descends into vaginal canal)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Gynecological cancers such as uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer
- Precancerous conditions of the uterus or cervix
Procedure / Treatment
Hysterectomy is performed in different ways based on the patient’s condition:
- Abdominal Hysterectomy – The uterus is removed through an incision in the lower abdomen. Preferred when the uterus is large or cancer is suspected.
- Vaginal Hysterectomy – The uterus is removed through the vagina. No external incision is made, leading to faster recovery.
- Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (Keyhole Surgery) – Small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (camera) guides the surgeon to remove the uterus. This method has minimal pain, shorter hospital stay, and quicker recovery.
- Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Hysterectomy – Similar to laparoscopic hysterectomy but done using a robotic system for higher precision.
Preparation & Recovery
- Pre-surgery evaluation includes blood tests, pelvic ultrasound, and medical assessment.
- Recovery time varies from 2-6 weeks based on the type of surgery.
- Pain, fatigue, and emotional changes are common during recovery.
- Follow-up visits and post-operative care are essential for smooth healing.
Prevention
While hysterectomy itself is a treatment, prevention of conditions leading to hysterectomy includes:
- Regular gynecological check-ups
- Early treatment of fibroids or endometriosis
- Maintaining healthy weight and lifestyle
- Managing hormonal imbalances
- Timely treatment of infections or precancerous changes
Benefits of Hysterectomy
- Permanent relief from heavy bleeding and associated anemia
- Relief from chronic pelvic pain or pressure symptoms
- Eliminates risk of uterine or cervical cancer (if entire uterus and cervix are removed)
- Improves quality of life by resolving bothersome symptoms
Types of Hysterectomy
- Total Hysterectomy – Removal of uterus and cervix.
- Subtotal / Supracervical Hysterectomy – Removal of the uterus, leaving the cervix intact.
- Radical Hysterectomy – Removal of uterus, cervix, part of vagina, and surrounding tissues; usually done for cancer treatment.
- Hysterectomy with Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy – Removal of uterus along with both ovaries and fallopian tubes.