The surgical elimination of the uterus that causes the cessation of menstruation and the inability to become pregnant is called hysterectomy. Aside from the uterus, it may also involve the removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
There are different ways to perform a hysterectomy.
The removal of the cervix and the uterus is called total hysterectomy.
Removal of the uterus alone is called subtotal hysterectomy.
In cases where there is a probability of cancer or the presence of cancer, the whole uterus and the tissues around it are removed. This is called radical hysterectomy.
It is used for the treatment of the following:
Average Cost
$5,643
Price Range
$3,585-7,700
Vaginal Hysterectomy Pros:
Laparoscopic hysterectomy Pros:
Abdominal Hysterectomy Pros:
Vaginal hysterectomy Cons:
Laparoscopic hysterectomy Cons:
Abdominal hysterectomy Cons:
A hysterectomy usually takes 1 to 3 hours and may be done under general or regional anesthesia. A partial or complete removal of the uterus may be done. There are times when the fallopian tubes may also be removed.
There are different types of procedures:
The surgeon will walk you through the details of the procedure, which includes the possible side effects and complications. Any questions about the procedure will also be addressed. Prior to surgery, the following steps will be taken:
The hospital stay is usually 1 to 3 days, depending on the type of surgery. A catheter may be placed to help the bladder pass urine for around 1 to 2 days after the surgery.
What are the different approaches of hysterectomies?
Depending on the patient’s condition and severity, there are four types of procedures that can be performed. These are the following:
Is there scarring in laparoscopic hysterectomy?
The risk of scarring would be minimal because the length of the incision is only about 8 to 12 mm.
What physically and emotional changes will I experience after my hysterectomy?
Physical changes include the following:
Emotional changes
Depending on how well a patient has prepared for surgery, the reason for the surgery, and whether the problem has been addressed, emotional reactions to hysterectomy vary. Some may be depressed or feel a sense of loss, but these reactions are temporary. Others may feel an improved sense of well-being or improved health, while some may believe that this was their life-saving operation. If you have any emotional concerns, you should discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How will this procedure affect my sex drive and functions?
Sexual function and sexual desires are not usually affected after a hysterectomy. Decreased sex drives and vaginal dryness may occur if the uterus and the ovaries are removed prior to menopause. But these hormone-related side effects and vaginal dryness can be relieved with estrogen therapy.