Why would you need a hysterectomy?
In some cases, hysterectomy (removal of your uterus) is absolutely essential. It’s usually the only option if you have cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer. You may also need an emergency hysterectomy if you have uncontrolled uterine hemorrhage or infection.
Hysterectomy for noncancerous conditions is considered only after other treatment alternatives have been tried without success.
The most common conditions treated with hysterectomy include:
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the wall of the uterus that often cause pain or heavy bleeding.
Endometriosis
Tissue normally found inside the uterus grows on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and throughout the pelvic region, causing pain and bleeding.
Uterine prolapse
Your uterus drops from its normal position, falling down into the vagina. This can happen as the tissues that hold the uterus in place become weak and damaged due to age or vaginal births.
Abnormal uterine bleeding
Infection, hormone imbalances, fibroids, and cancer are a few common causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.
Adenomyosis
Endometrial lining grows inside the muscular uterine walls, causing pain and bleeding.
What are the different types of hysterectomies?
Dr. Weinstein meets with you for a comprehensive consultation prior to scheduling a hysterectomy, so you can discuss which type of hysterectomy is best for your underlying condition.
Total hysterectomy
The entire uterus is removed, including the cervix.
Partial hysterctomy
Also called a subtotal or supracervical hysterectomy, this procedure removes the upper part of the uterus, leaving the cervix in place.
Radical hysterectomy
Often used to treat cancer, a radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix, tissue on both sides of the cervix, and the upper part of the vagina.
During all three procedures, your ovaries and fallopian tubes may or may not be removed. When both ovaries are removed, you enter induced menopause.
How is hysterectomy performed?
Dr. Weinstein performs hysterectomies using three different procedures:
- Vaginal: your uterus is removed through a small incision in your vagina
- Open or abdominal: like conventional open surgery, your uterus is removed through an incision in your lower abdomen
- Laparoscopic: minimally invasive surgery using specialized medical devices inserted through several small incisions
If you have questions about any gynecologic problems that may require a hysterectomy, please call Dr. Weinstein or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment.
