A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a woman’s uterus. There are different reasons why a hysterectomy may be needed, from chronic pain to cancer.
By understanding what a hysterectomy is and why it may be needed, you can determine whether a hysterectomy is worth considering.
It can be alarming if your doctor recommends a hysterectomy.
To calm your nerves and provide more information, we will break down five of the most common reasons why women undergo hysterectomies.
Uterine fibroids are lumps that form on the uterus. Although benign, uterine fibroids can cause many issues relating to the uterus. These include heavy periods, severe cramping and pain during intercourse. Most women experience uterine fibroids at some point in their life, but the symptoms are most often minimal.
Hormone therapy or embolization may be options for treatment. That said, a hysterectomy is the most recommended form of treatment if uterine fibroids are causing severe complications.
Uterine prolapse is a term used to describe the sliding of the uterus into the vaginal canal. Most cases of uterine prolapse can be repaired through surgery that does not involve removing the uterus.
You may need a hysterectomy for more serious cases of prolapse, especially when non-surgical options fail.
Uterine prolapse symptoms commonly include increased discharge, vaginal bleeding and pain while sitting. It is important to seek prompt treatment for uterine prolapse. Early diagnosis can prevent the problem from worsening or lingering for longer than necessary.
Pelvic pain can be the result of a completely benign issue. It is normal to experience cases of light to moderate pain over your lifetime.
However, you need to be wary of chronic pelvic pain that is accompanied by other symptoms. In some instances, chronic pelvic pain indicates endometriosis or another condition involving the uterus.
If the pain lasts longer than usual, then your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy to relieve the discomfort.
Endometriosis develops when uterine-lining tissue develops outside of the uterus itself. Endometriosis can cause significant complications that make it difficult for women to carry out their daily routine in a normal manner. Symptoms of endometriosis include pain in the abdomen region, excessive bleeding during menstruation and infertility.
In many instances, the best form of treatment for endometriosis is to completely remove the uterus through a hysterectomy. This should help the patient become pain-free once again.
Those who have uterine cancer often receive a hysterectomy since cancer removal is one of the most effective treatment methods.
While a hysterectomy is almost always performed for cancer in the uterus, it may also be used when cancer exists in the cervix or ovaries.
If you have excessive pelvic pain or other complications, then speak with a doctor to learn about treatment options. Aside from cancer, a hysterectomy is often the last solution after trying all other treatments.
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