What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove a woman’s womb, or uterus. Dr. Whitfield also removes the Fallopian tubes and/or ovaries when medically necessary. After a hysterectomy, you stop having your menstrual periods and can no longer become pregnant.
There are three different types of hysterectomies:
- Partial: The upper part of the uterus is removed, while the cervix is left in place.
- Total: The entire uterus and cervix are removed.
- Radical: The uterus and all of the surrounding structures are removed.
Why is a hysterectomy done?
For some women, hysterectomy is the best treatment option available after more conservative options have proven ineffective. Women have hysterectomies to treat or relieve many different conditions including:
- Excessive vaginal bleeding caused by fibroids, infection, or hormone disruptions
- Pelvic pain such as from endometriosis or fibroids
- Enlargement of the uterus from uterine fibroids
- Uterine prolapse: slippage of the uterus into the vaginal area, causing urinary and bowel problems
- Cancer or precancerous changes of the cervix, ovary, uterus, or uterine lining
What should I expect from hysterectomy surgery?
Deciding to undergo a hysterectomy is a major decision. Dr. Whitfield assesses your age, reproductive goals, symptoms, and overall health to determine whether a hysterectomy is the best medical course of action for you.
He reviews the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the procedure. If you agree together that a hysterectomy is right for you, Dr. Whitfield decides on the best approach to your surgery.
Dr. Whitfield performs hysterectomies in one of the following ways:
- Abdominally: through an incision in your lower abdomen; often recommended for women with sizeable lesions or a larger uterus
- Laparoscopically: using a small tool called a laparoscope inserted through a tiny incision in your abdomen or vagina
- Vaginally: through a small incision in your vagina; offers a shorter recovery time over other types of surgery
Depending on the type of hysterectomy you’ve had, you may be able to go home the same day or require a brief hospital stay. You may experience mild pain, discharge, and/or bleeding after surgery, so Dr. Whitfield will prescribe pain medication to reduce your discomfort.
He generally recommends that you avoid intense exercise, heavy lifting, and sex for up to six to eight weeks after surgery. He carefully monitors your progress throughout your recovery.
Dr. Whitfield provides personalized gynecological care that answers all of your health and wellness needs - not just your immediate symptoms.
For an appointment, consultation or second opinion to learn more about different hysterectomy options available today, schedule an appointment online or by telephone today.
