Hysterectomy Specialist

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove your uterus. There are three main types of hysterectomy, including: 

Total hysterectomy

In a total hysterectomy, your doctor removes your uterus and cervix.

Supracervical hysterectomy

In a supracervical hysterectomy, your doctor removes the top portion of your uterus but leaves your cervix in place.

Radical hysterectomy

In a radical hysterectomy, your doctor removes your uterus and cervix, as well as surrounding structures. 

Your doctor might need to remove your fallopian tubes (salpingectomy), ovaries (oophorectomy), or both (salpingo-oophorectomy). If you need these additional surgeries, your doctor typically performs the procedure at the same time as your hysterectomy.

In most cases, the experienced surgeons at Nile Women’s Health Care perform hysterectomies using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. 

How does laparoscopic hysterectomy work?

In a laparoscopic hysterectomy, your doctor creates a tiny abdominal incision. They place a laparoscope, a tube with a lighted mini camera, through the incision, then your doctor views your uterus and nearby structures on a high definition monitor. 

Next, your doctor makes a few more tiny incisions and inserts medical tools. They remove the uterus in sections, and your doctor closes the incisions with sutures or glue and places small bandages on top. 

With this approach, you have minimal bleeding, reduced pain, and overall faster recovery than a traditional open hysterectomy with a large abdominal incision.

When would I need a hysterectomy?

There are many reasons that you might need a hysterectomy. If you have a condition that doesn't respond to non-surgical treatments or other minimally invasive procedures, a hysterectomy could be the right choice. Some common reasons for hysterectomy are:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Uterine prolapse
• Pelvic pain
• Menorrhagia - heavy bleeding or prolonged periods
• Endometrial or cervical cancer

After a hysterectomy, you can't become pregnant or give birth. Doctors recommend this surgery only after you complete family building or if it's medically necessary.

Will I start menopause after my hysterectomy?

If you have a hysterectomy but don't have an oophorectomy (ovary removal), you'll still have all your normal hormones. Therefore, you’ll start menopause at the usual time (typically in your 40s or 50s). 

If you have oophorectomy surgery along with your hysterectomy, you could start having menopause symptoms right away. Your doctor can help with menopause symptoms to keep you comfortable.

Nile Women's Health Care can make your hysterectomy a comfortable and stress-free experience. Set up your appointment by calling the office or booking online today.