Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a woman’s uterus. After a cesarean section, it is the most frequently performed surgical procedure among women of reproductive age in the United States.
Here at Virtuosa GYN, we’re experts at determining whether you need a hysterectomy. Our OB/GYNs have extensive experience performing various types of hysterectomies, including minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery featuring the da Vinci® robotics system.
Reasons for a hysterectomy
The following are five common reasons that we may recommend a hysterectomy.
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are growths that develop in the walls of your uterus. Although they are typically not cancerous, uterine fibroids can cause annoying symptoms such as pain, heavy bleeding, discomfort during sex, lower back pain, frequent urination, or a feeling of fullness in your pelvic area.
Uterine prolapse
This is a condition in which your uterus slips out of position within your pelvis and moves into your vagina. It commonly occurs in women who have had multiple vaginal deliveries or in women who are obese. Uterine prolapse can cause pressure in the pelvis and may contribute to incontinence and other symptoms.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue from within the uterus grows in places where it doesn’t belong, such as your ovaries, bladder, intestines, or pelvic cavity. Endometriosis can cause a range of symptoms, including heavy bleeding and pain.
Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding
Heavy bleeding can take several forms, including excessively long or heavy periods. Women who experience excessive menstrual bleeding may miss many days of work or school because of their symptoms.
Gynecological cancers
In some cases, cancer of the uterus, vagina, fallopian tubes, endometrium, cervix, or ovaries is best treated with a hysterectomy.
Types of hysterectomies
The conditions listed here don’t always require a hysterectomy. Often, we can successfully treat them with more conservative approaches that preserve the uterus. But sometimes a hysterectomy is the best option.
If you do require a hysterectomy, there are several types available. The one that is best for you depends on the nature of your medical condition, your age, and other factors. Types of hysterectomies include:
- Total hysterectomy, which is removal of your uterus and cervix
- Partial hysterectomy, which is removal of only the upper part of the uterus, but not the cervix
- Radical hysterectomy, which removes all of the uterus and cervix and parts of the vagina and other supporting tissue
- Removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes, which may or may not be included in a hysterectomy
A minimally invasive option
Whenever possible, our doctors at Virtuosa GYN perform minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomies with guidance from the da Vinci® robotic system.
Laparoscopic surgery typically results in quicker recuperation time, less discomfort, and fewer potential side effects than open surgery.
Schedule a consultation today
If you’re experiencing challenging gynecological symptoms or if you have a condition that may require a hysterectomy, our supportive, experienced care providers at Virtuosa GYN in San Antonio, Texas, are here to help. Call us to schedule a consultation.
