What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes your uterus, which is the organ that helps your baby grow and develop during pregnancy. If necessary, the gynecology specialists at Grapevine Women’s Health and Gynecology may also remove your ovaries and fallopian tubes during a hysterectomy.
After a hysterectomy, you no longer menstruate or have the ability to get pregnant.
There are many different ways a hysterectomy may be performed:
- Vaginal hysterectomy
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy
- Abdominal hysterectomy
If medically and physically feasible, minimally invasive surgical options including vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomies will be performed.
Why would I need a hysterectomy?
The team at Grapevine Women’s Health and Gynecology may recommend a hysterectomy for a number of different reasons, including:
- Fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Severe heavy bleeding
- Uterine prolapse
- Adenomyosis
- Pelvic pain
What is a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a laparoscope, a small surgical camera that allows the team to view your abdomen and pelvis without a large incision.
During a laparoscopic hysterectomy, the gynecology specialists insert the laparoscope through a small incision in your abdomen. Surgical instruments are utilized to remove your uterus using two additional small incisions.
Since it is a less invasive procedure, your recovery time after a laparoscopic hysterectomy is significantly shorter than an abdominal hysterectomy.
What is a vaginal hysterectomy?
A vaginal hysterectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes your uterus through your vagina. Like a laparoscopic hysterectomy, the vaginal hysterectomy is a less invasive surgery and allows you to get back to your usual routine faster than an abdominal hysterectomy.
What can I expect after a hysterectomy?
Whether laparoscopic, vaginal or abdominal, a hysterectomy is a major surgery, so it may take some time for you to heal.
For more information about your surgical options for a hysterectomy, call the office or request an appointment online.
