Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a surgery for women.  It involves the removal of the uterus (womb). In many cases the ovaries and the fallopian tubes are removed as well.

There are three types of hysterectomy

  • Partial: This is the removal of only the upper uterus. The cervix is not removed.
  • Complete: This is the total removal of both the uterus and the cervix. It is the most common type of hysterectomy.
  • Radical: This is the removal of the uterus, the cervix and part of the vagina along with supporting muscle and tissue.

You may need to have a hysterectomy if you experience the following:

  • Cancer in the ovaries, uterus or fallopian tubes.
  • Severe chronic pain in the pelvis (in this case, surgery is seen as a last resort).
  • If the uterus drops into the vagina (medically known as "uterine prolapse").
  • Presence of non-cancerous tumours in the walls of the uterus (medically known as "fibroids").
  • Heavy periods (in this case, surgery is seen as a last resort)

Complications


Women who have a hysterectomy are at risk of additional complications. These are:

  • Damage to the bladder
  • Damage to the bowel
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Heart problems
  • The surgery wound splitting open

Recovery

Recovery from a hysterectomy can take several weeks. Most women will stay in hospital for 2-4 days after the surgery. If the surgery was performed abdominally, it will take 6-8 weeks for the patient to fully recover and be able to go about her usual routine again. However, if the surgery was performed vaginally, the patient could return to her activities within a week or two.

Alternatives to Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is often seen as a last resort.  Therefore, it should be noted that there are a number of alternatives that women should try before deciding to undergo this surgery. These are:

  • Taking specialised medication to control heavy periods.
  • Using contraceptive means to control heavy periods e.g. the IUD/ loop or the contraceptive pill.
  • By using specialised medical tools, a doctor can, through the use of electricity and heat, destroy the lining of the uterus to stop it bleeding. This process is called an Endometrial Ablation.
  • Surgery that removes only the tumours (fibroids) while leaving the rest of the uterus intact. This is known as a "myomectomy".
  • Blocking the blood supply to fibroids in the uterus. Over time, they will shrink, helping to relieve pain and heavy bleeding.
  • Holding the uterus in place by putting an object into the vagina. This treatment, known as vaginal pessary, can be used as either a permanent or temporary solution.

Speak to your doctor before deciding on any kind of treatment if you suffer from any of the above-mentioned symptoms.  Remember that a hysterectomy should only be considered when all other options have been explored and failed.  This surgery is a last resort only.

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Last update: 18 August 2010