Total Hysterectomy: Who’s a Candidate and What It Involves

A total hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and cervix, and the fallopian tubes are usually removed also.

We’ll explore this procedure in greater detail, examining when it would be appropriate and how it is performed. 

What Conditions Can A Total Hysterectomy Help Manage?

Several conditions can occur that can result in chronic pain, excessive bleeding, and decreased quality of life that cannot be managed by nonsurgical methods.

1. Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are smooth muscle masses that can grow in the uterus as a woman ages. Although these tumors are rarely cancerous, they can cause pain and heavy, occasionally life-threatening bleeding and anemia.

2. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is the condition in which pockets of glandular menstrual tissue grow inside the uterine muscle which is commonly associated with excessive bleeding and pain.

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic, painful disease in which menstrual tissue grows outside of the uterus in the peritoneum (lining of the abdomen and pelvis) or on various abdominal organs. Hysterectomy (and often removal of the ovaries) can result in long-term pain relief in cases where medical management hasn’t helped.

4. Pelvic relaxation syndrome

Pelvic relaxation syndrome occurs in some women due to genetic predisposition or childbirth. The pelvic muscles that support the uterus and organs can weaken and the uterus can “drop” lower in the pelvis causing pain and difficulty having sex.

5. Cancer treatment

Hysterectomy is also part of the management of several gynecologic cancers. It can be offered to women at high risk for cancer due to family history or other factors to ultimately lower their cancer risk.

How Is A Hysterectomy Performed?

The uterus can be removed through an abdominal incision or a vaginal incision. Many patients are candidates for the “minimally invasive” approach which involves four, one-inch abdominal incisions and robotic-assisted endoscopy.

Why Aren’t Hysterectomies More Common, Since The Uterus Is Only Needed For Childbearing?

A total hysterectomy is an expensive and major procedure with a complication rate of three percent.  It is associated with a long recovery period involving pain management and extreme fatigue.  

Although it can improve the quality of life for many women, it should be reserved for situations where non-surgical management methods have failed or are not appropriate.   

Let Our Board-Certified OBGYNs in Dallas Guide You to a Healthier Life

 Whether you’re expecting your first baby or you’re entering menopause, our experienced team is happy to serve you through all stages of your life. We provide a unique combination of cutting-edge technology and compassionate care. 

Discover our dedication for yourself by scheduling an appointment today.