According to OB-GYN Montgomery County Dr. Rania Ibrahim, certain gynecologic problems – such as endometriosis, gynecologic cancer, uterine prolapse, abnormal vaginal bleeding and chronic pelvic pain – can lead to the need for a hysterectomy.
Today, Dr. Ibrahim answers some frequently asked questions regarding the procedure.
What is a hysterectomy?
A total hysterectomy involves removal of the entire uterus, including the cervix. A supra-cervical hysterectomy includes removing the upper part of the uterus while leaving the cervix in place. Hysterectomy can also include removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
How is a hysterectomy performed?
Hysterectomy is one of the safest surgical procedures being performed. Hysterectomies can be performed vaginally, abdominally or via laparoscopic surgery.
With vaginal hysterectomy, your OB-GYN Montgomery County removes the uterus through the vagina. With the laparoscopic procedure, a thin, lighted tube is inserted through a small incision near the navel. The uterus is detached and removed through the vagina in small pieces with or without robotic assistance. With both these procedures, there is less pain, faster healing times and shorter hospital stays than with abdominal surgery.
What are the risks associated with a hysterectomy?
With any surgery, there is a heightened risk of blood loss, blood clots, infection and/or reactions to anesthesia. There is also a slight risk of injury to other pelvic and abdominal organs. Your OB-GYN Montgomery County reports that this risk is higher if the patient has large fibroids, tumors or severe endometriosis because they can obstruct the OB-GYN’s view.
Women who are obese or who have diabetes or high blood pressure are at higher risk. Bloody vaginal discharge and some discomfort in the weeks immediately following surgery are normal.
What can be expected following surgery?
Symptoms – such as chronic bleeding and pelvic pain – will disappear. The patient will no longer have a monthly menstrual cycle or be able to get pregnant. If the ovaries were not removed, she will produce hormones and eggs until reaching menopause. But if the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed along with the uterus, menopause will start following the surgery. Your OB-GYN Montgomery County can prescribe medications to help treat the symptoms of menopause.
If you are experiencing any pain – and would like to determine if you are a candidate for hysterectomy – call the office of OB-GYN Montgomery County Dr. Rania Ibrahim today to schedule a confidential consultation. You don’t have to live in pain!