Risks Associated With Hysterectomy
What is Hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy means the surgical removal of the uterus. In some cases, other accompanying organs such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix are often removed too, depending on the type of hysterectomy being performed. The procedure terminates menstruation and the ability to have a pregnancy.
Hysterectomy is one of the most common types of elective surgeries for women. It is essential for women to be educated about it and that a hysterectomy is not a minor surgery and should not inevitably be chosen as the only treatment and only option for heavy menstrual bleeding. A hysterectomy should be reserved for cases only when conservative treatment options have not worked.
The majority of hysterectomies are performed to take care of conditions such as fibroids (growths inside the uterus), heavy bleeding, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine prolapse and cancer.
The magnitude of a hysterectomy depends on the reason for the surgery. In maximum cases, the entire uterus is removed. The surgeon may also remove the ovaries and the fallopian tubes during the surgery. Once you’ve had a hysterectomy, you’ll seize to have menstrual periods. You’ll also lose the ability to get pregnant.
Risks associated with Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is largely very safe, but with any key surgery comes the risk of complications.
Risks associated with hysterectomy include:
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Disproportionate bleeding
- Hostile reaction to anesthesia
- Damage to urinary tract, bladder, rectum or other pelvic structures during surgery, which may require further repair
- Earlier onset of menopause even if the ovaries aren't removed
- On the odd occasion, death
Other ongoing complications of hysterectomy include:
- Difficulty urinating. More usual after removal of lymph nodes, ovaries, and structures that support the uterus (radical hysterectomy).
- Weakness of the pelvic muscles and ligaments that support the vagina, bladder, and rectum. Kegel exercises may help reinforce the pelvic muscles and ligaments. But some women need other treatments, including supplementary surgery.
- Continued heavy bleeding. Some vaginal bleeding within 4 to 6 weeks is normal. But call your doctor if bleeding continues to be substantial.
- Some women may experience early menopause.
- The formation of scar tissue (adhesions) in the pelvic area.
Most women do not have complications after a hysterectomy.