Uterus Removal: What to Expect and How to Thrive

Obstetrics and Gynaecology | by Dr. Syed Monajatur Rahman | Published on 01/04/2024

Introduction

A hysterectomy, also known as uterine removal, is among the most common surgical procedures that are frequently advised for several uterine-related medical disorders, including cancer, endometriosis, and fibroids. Depending on certain factors, including age, region, and access to healthcare, its prevalence differs. 

With around 500,000 performed each year, hysterectomy rates are high in India. However, numbers vary throughout the world according to social, medical, and cultural norms. Despite being common, having a hysterectomy is still a big decision that needs to be carefully thought out and discussed with medical professionals. 

So, if you intend to get uterus removal done as advised by your healthcare expert, make sure to book your appointment with best gynaecologist in kolkata at CMRI for the best outcomes. You will discover the most experienced and professional doctors here. 

For more information, you can read the blog below. However, please note that this is for informational purposes and we don’t construe with the doctor’s consultation.

What is Uterus Removal?

Uterus removal also known as hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that helps in removing the uterus of a female. Many medical disorders such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, uterine prolapse, or specific malignancies require this surgical procedure. Different forms of hysterectomies, such as partial hysterectomy (removing only the uterus while leaving the cervix intact) or total hysterectomy (removing the entire uterus and cervix) may be performed, depending on the particular problem and the patient's health. Many health problems are successfully resolved by the operation, but it also makes future pregnancies impossible. As a result, anyone must think about having a hysterectomy and carefully assess the advantages and potential drawbacks.

What are the types of Uterus Removal?

Uterus removal is categorized into different types including:

• Total hysterectomy: It involves the cervix and uterus being removed.
• Subtotal hysterectomy: Uterine excision with cervical preservation.
• Radical hysterectomy: The uterus, cervix, upper vagina, and surrounding tissues are removed during a radical hysterectomy, which is frequently done in situations of gynecological cancer.
• Laparoscopic hysterectomy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a camera for guiding and tiny incisions.
• Vaginal hysterectomy: When treating diseases such as uterine prolapse, this method of removing the uterus is frequently used.

What are the benefits of a uterus removal procedure?

Uterus removal offers several benefits some of which are as follows:

• Relief from Gynecological Conditions: Endometriosis, fibroids, and irregular bleeding can all be relieved by a hysterectomy.
• Reducing the chance of cancer: Cancer prevention lowers the chance of developing ovarian, cervical, or uterine cancer.
• Treatment for Pelvic Pain: Reduces long-term pelvic pain.
• Correcting prolapse: Uterine prolapse is corrected by prolapse correction.
• Better Quality of Life: Get rid of menstruation and all the problems that go along with it, improving general health.
• Enhanced Sexual Function: By easing discomfort during sexual activity, this may increase sexual enjoyment.
• Hormone replacement therapy: It is a means of controlling menopausal symptoms following surgical procedures.
• Psychological Relief: Provides closure to individuals dealing with persistent gynecological problems.
• Fertility Conclusion: Provides a conclusive answer for individuals who have raised their entire family.

Why is the uterus removal procedure performed?

Here are some of the reasons for why uterus removal is performed:

• Uterine fibroids: Large, symptomatic fibroids that push, bleed, or cause pain are referred to as uterine fibroids.
• Endometriosis: Abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus leading to throbbing pain and suffering.
• Uterine prolapse: The uterus descends into the vaginal canal, causing difficulties and discomfort.
• Gynecological cancers: Treatment for ovarian, cervical, or uterine tumors is known as "gynecological cancers."
• Chronic pelvic pain: Pain that does not go away with other therapies.
• Adenomyosis: Pain and profuse bleeding due to uterine wall thickening.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease: Severe infection or inflammation of the female reproductive system is known as chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID.

What happens before and during the uterus removal procedure?

A hysterectomy, or uterus removal involves the following steps before the procedure is initiated:

• Consultation: Discussion about the procedure's benefits and hazards with a gynecologist to determine whether it is required.
• Pre-operative assessment: Evaluation of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound.
• Surgery preparation: Getting ready for surgery includes planning transportation, stopping some medications, and fasting before the procedure.

During the procedure 

The surgeon involves the following steps after initiating the procedure: 

• Anesthesia: To make sure the patient is unconscious and pain-free, general anesthesia is given.
• Incision: Depending on the kind of hysterectomy, a surgical incision is created, usually in the vagina or abdomen.
• Removal: The reproductive organs, including the uterus, are gently removed.
• Closure: The wounds are sealed, and the recovery process starts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it's important to choose hysterectomy or uterus removal with cautious understanding even if it's a regular treatment that has great benefits for patients with certain uterine disorders. Since every person's circumstances are different, it is vital to get in touch with medical experts to assess the advantages, disadvantages, and available options. Comprehending the physical and emotional consequences might enable you to make knowledgeable choices regarding their reproductive well-being. Eventually, it is critical to put your health and quality of life first, regardless of whether a hysterectomy is chosen or alternative methods are investigated.

Faq -

 

Is uterus removal surgery safe?

Yes, uterus removal is the safest surgical procedure when done by a surgeon having years of experience and following proper protocols.

Is uterus removal painful?

Uterus removal might cause slight pain, but it also depends on the patient's tolerance level and the pain removal methods involved during the procedure.

Does uterus removal cause menopause?

Yes, if ovaries are also removed along with the uterus, then it can induce menopause because of the low formation of estrogen hormone. 

Is it safe to remove the uterus and ovaries?

Uterus removal and removing ovaries along with it must be cautiously weighed as it might carry certain risks and complications. 

Can the uterus be removed through laparoscopy?

Yes, laparoscopy is involved these days for uterus removal through the use of special treatments providing benefits like fast recovery and less scarring.