Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy Q & A

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove your uterus. Along with the uterus, you may also have the ovaries, cervix, and fallopian tubes removed as well. Your symptoms and condition determine exactly what type of hysterectomy you undergo.

What are the types of hysterectomy?

Hysterectomies vary in their extensiveness. You may undergo one of several types, including:

• A partial hysterectomy, in which the upper part of your uterus is removed. Your cervix is left in place. Sometimes the ovaries are removed.
• A total hysterectomy, which involves the removal of your entire uterus and cervix. Sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes are also removed.
• A radical hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, cervix, tissue around the cervix, and upper part of the vagina. The ovaries and fallopian tubes are sometimes removed, too.

A radical hysterectomy is usually only recommended in cases of uterine or cervical cancer.

Am I a candidate for a hysterectomy?

When conservative treatments fail to resolve certain gynecological conditions, a hysterectomy may be the best course of treatment. Women’s health concerns that may require a hysterectomy include:

• Fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Cervical or uterine cancer
• Unspecified uterine bleeding
• Uterine prolapse

Explore all your treatment options before resorting to a hysterectomy. Dr. Hernandez can help educate you on your options so that you’re comfortable with your health decisions.

What should I expect during a hysterectomy?

Dr. Hernandez prioritizes using minimally invasive techniques to perform a hysterectomy. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, result in less pain, reduced scarring, less blood loss, and a faster recovery.

Dr. Hernandez determines whether you’d benefit from an abdominal or vaginal approach to remove your uterus and any additional organs. He’ll make just a few incisions and use tiny instruments to remove the uterus.

How long does it take to recover from a hysterectomy?

Typically, you’ll need to spend one night in the hospital following a hysterectomy. Every woman is different, but it usually takes about six weeks to fully recover. Talk to Dr. Hernandez and the expert team at his office about what to expect in the weeks following your surgery.

To learn more about hysterectomy and whether it’s the right course of treatment for you, call the office or schedule an appointment using this website.