Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is an operation that removes a woman’s uterus and in most cases the cervix. It is the second most common operation in women and can be performed in many different ways and for a variety of reasons. The uterus serves as the womb during pregnancy and provides monthly bleeding, or menses, when a woman is not pregnant.

Will hysterectomy effect my hormones?

Not usually.  Hysterectomy is strictly removal of the uterus and cervix and will not impact a woman’s production of hormones.  If a woman has her ovaries removed in addition to hysterectomy (called bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy) the ovaries will no longer be producing hormones and it will put her into surgical menopause.

Why is hysterectomy so common?

Hysterectomy effectively treats a variety of problems: fibroids, abnormal bleeding (menorrhagia), endometriosis, cancer and prolapse.  It is also quite safe and relatively easy to recover from.  Most women are very happy with their decision to have a hysterectomy and often say “I don’t know why I waited so long to have it.”

Will hysterectomy change my ability to achieve orgasm?

Not usually. Many women find hysterectomy improves their pain and therefore their ability to achieve orgasm. Some women do not notice any change after hysterectomy. A few women find that orgasm is more difficult after hysterectomy and have to work with their partner to find other techniques to climax.

Why is vaginal hysterectomy better?

Dr. O’Sullivan performs 95% of hysterectomies through the vagina because it is faster, safer and less expensive than other methods.  Vaginal hysterectomy is faster because there are no large incisions made on the abdomen, the procedure is done almost entirely through a speculum in the vagina, although you may have 3 small incisions on the belly if your procedure is laparoscopically assisted. This procedure is safer than other types of hysterectomy because the intestines are out of the way and therefore protected.  Vaginal hysterectomy is less expensive because it does not require disposable laparoscopic or elaborate robotic instruments.

Is vaginal hysterectomy always the best option?

No. If you have uterine or ovarian cancer, a very large uterus or have had multiple abdominal surgeries, it may be safer to have an abdominal hysterectomy. Dr. O’Sullivan will consider your history, your reasons for having hysterectomy and your physical exam when deciding which approach is best for you.

For more patient information regarding hysterectomy.

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