It is a surgical process characterized by the removal of a woman’s uterus. It usually involves the removal of the whole uterus but in some cases, it may only involve the removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Usually, it is considered that this process is used in the case of cancer but it is a false perception because only 10% of hysterectomies are performed for cancer. There are several other reasons which are way more complicated in their nature and require this surgery putting the women and their physicians in a challenging situation.
It is a very serious and major operation which is only recommended in a situation where no other treatment is working. The most common reasons that acquire this surgical process are;
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- Pelvic pain that might be caused by the endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, infection and scar tissue.
- Hyperplasia that is believed to be caused by the exceeding amount of estrogen.
- Uterine Prolapse is a condition when the uterus moves into the vagina from its usual place.
- Heavy periods
- Endometriosis
- Cancer
Decision Making
It is a major surgical operation that requires proper thinking and decision making before going for it. If you are planning to go through this process, regardless of the reason, do not rush it. As it is not an emergency treatment so there is a huge time to think about it and to have detailed discussion with your gynecologist. Marham is the right place to find the best gynecologists in Lahore, Karachi or any other main city of Pakistan.
Must Read: 5 Most Reviewed and Best Gynecologists in Karachi
If the patient is suffering from cancer than it is the only option of treatment. But in other cases before going for this major surgical process, you need to answer some questions in order to clarify your vision as well as the treatment aspects regarding the specific condition you are suffering from.
These questions involve:
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- Is my condition really affecting my quality of life?
- Have I tried all other alternative treatment options?
- Am I prepared for the outcomes of this surgical operation such as; menopause?
- Is my family is complete or do I still want more children?
Tests Performed Prior to a Hysterectomy
These tests and treatments are based upon the condition for which this operation is going to be performed such as:
For Pelvic Pain
If you are going through this process due to pelvic pain then you need a prior diagnosis that is confirmed by the pelvic examination called Pap smear.
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For Heavy Periods
If you are going to have a hysterectomy due to heavy periods then a biopsy of the endometrium (endometrial sampling) is required prior to the operation and it is done to rule out cancer or pre-cancer of the uterus. Pelvic ultrasound or pelvic computerized tomography (CT) tests can also be performed to confirm a diagnosis.
For a Premenopausal Patient
Patients whose uterine fibroids are causing heavy bleeding without pain is first recommended with a medical therapy either with hormones or non-hormonal such as Trexanemic acid. If the condition did not get better then hysterectomy is done.
For a Postmenopausal Patient
Patients having postmenopausal persistent heavy bleeding, without any abnormalities in the uterus, after trying a hormonal therapy is considered for a hysterectomy.
Complications of Hysterectomy
After this surgical operation, the rate of post-operative infection and pain is high. It can also cause bleeding and pain in the surgical area.
Aims of Hysterectomy
This major surgical procedure mainly aims for:
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- Saving a life
- Improving the quality of life
- Correcting a serious issue that is causing hindrance to normal routine work.
