According to the US National Cancer Institute, a hysterectomy It is surgery that allows the removal of the uterus, and sometimes, the organs and tissues that surround it.this through a cut in the lower part of the belly or abdomen.
The uterus, also called the womb, is the place where the fetus grows during the gestation period.
There are several types of hysterectomies: it is called subtotal when only the uterus is removed. In a total hysterectomy (the most common procedure), the uterus and cervix are removed; while if the uterus, surrounding tissue, fallopian tubes, ovaries, lymph nodes, fatty tissue and a section of the vagina are removed, it is known as a radical hysterectomy and is generally only done when the patient has cancer. .
Hysterectomy can be done in the following ways:
- A surgical incision in the abdomen
- Three to four surgical incisions in the belly and then using a laparoscope
- A surgical incision in the vagina, aided by the use of a laparoscope
- A surgical incision in the vagina without the aid of a laparoscope
When is a hysterectomy done?
There are several cases in which a hysterectomy can be performed, among which we can find:
- Uterine cancer
- Cervix cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis, a condition that causes heavy, painful periods
- Heavy and prolonged vaginal bleeding not controlled by medications
- Pelvic pain
In the case of non-cancerous diseases, this procedure will only be performed following trying all possible treatment options since it is important to note that following this operation is performed, the person can no longer become pregnant.
What will happen to my body following this procedure?
After the hysterectomy is performed, the person who underwent the procedure will no longer have menstruations, and will feel relief from the symptoms prior to the operation.
It is possible for you to have surgical menopause regardless of your age, even if your ovaries were not removed during surgery.
However, this procedure can also psychologically affect the person who underwent it, as many women might have a feeling of loss, since fertility is lost. For this reason, it is recommended to see a mental health professional to treat this feeling.
What are the risks of the surgeon?
Despite being a low-risk operation, like all major surgery, hysterectomy can present certain complications such as:
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
- Damage to the urinary tract, bladder, rectum
- Blood clots
- Onset of menopause at an early age
- In extreme cases, death
How to prepare for surgery?
If you need to undergo this procedure, prior preparation is important. Your doctor will prescribe a series of tests prior to the surgery that will need to be performed.
Before surgery, it is important that you inform yourself regarding all the doubts you have regarding the procedure. You can ask a health professional to avoid any erroneous information. However, you can also find out regarding the surgery and how it is performed to have all possible information.
Follow the instructions that the health care staff will give you for pre- and post-operative care to avoid any complications.
The recovery period is of utmost importance, be sure to follow the instructions provided by health professionals and take care of your body.
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