A hysterectomy is a procedure that involves the removal of a woman’s uterus and, more likely, the cervix. The uterus carries the fetus throughout the pregnancy. If a woman does not conceive, she sheds the thick blood lining of the uterus that was formed during the menstrual cycle in preparation for implantation. Depending on the condition, removing nearby organs and tissues, such as the ovary and fallopian tube, might be necessary.

Here are hysterectomy-related causes, types, modifications, and precautions.

Causes of hysterectomy

Uterine fibroids
The uterus can develop non-cancerous growths called uterine fibroids. These may result in painful bleeding, discomfort, or even affect fertility. The first course of action recommended by doctors is the use of birth control pills or a myomectomy, which only removes the fibroids and leaves the uterus in place. If that doesn’t work, the entire uterus will be removed with the help of this process.

Cancer
This treatment is also considered if a woman has cancer of the uterus, ovary, cervix, or endometrium. Treatment is determined by the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. It is sometimes combined with chemotherapy and radiation. Doctors recommend surgery even for precancerous development to prevent it from progressing to cancer later.

Endometriosis
This illness causes the uterus’ normal lining tissue to begin to grow outside of it. This may result in infertility, painful periods, and severe pain. Before performing this operation, doctors frequently recommend hormone therapy or surgical procedures to remove endometrial tissue. This condition may recur after treatment, so keep this in mind before beginning the procedure.

Infection
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a bacterial infection that causes severe pelvic pain. It is typically treated with antibiotics if diagnosed early. A hysterectomy is a better option to prevent complications if it spreads in the body.

Types of hysterectomy
The doctor will suggest a specific kind of hysterectomy for pain relief and better health based on the patient’s health condition. Types of this process include:

• Partial hysterectomy
  This procedure removes a portion of the uterus while leaving the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes intact.
• Complete hysterectomy
  In this procedure, both the uterus and cervix are removed. Another option is to remove the fallopian tube while preserving the ovary. This can lower the risk of developing certain cancers.
• Hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy
  In this, the uterus, one or both ovaries, and the fallopian tubes are removed. This procedure is followed by hormone therapy.

Recovery following surgery
Recovery from such a thorough procedure might take some time. The procedure can take one to three hours, and the patient will likely need to stay in the hospital for one or two days post-treatment. Depending on the procedure, recovery from abdominal surgery can take anywhere from four to six weeks. Recovery from vaginal, laparoscopic, or robotic surgery can take three to four weeks. Therefore, it is crucial to get plenty of rest and refrain from lifting anything heavy for the first 4-6 weeks following surgery.

Changes after procedures
This is a serious procedure that takes time to recover from. It does, however, significantly reduce pain and enhance the post-operative quality of life. Other changes will occur following the operation. Women go through menopause, which means they will not have periods for the rest of their lives. It may also result in vaginal dryness and a lack of sexual desire. It may increase the likelihood of developing additional health problems. If both ovaries are removed, the patient may be more susceptible to diseases such as bone loss and heart disease.

Precautions before the surgery

• Read everything you can about the condition and treatment; knowing the procedure will help you keep prepared for the options recommended.
• Consult your doctor before the surgery about any changes to your regular prescription or meal plans.
• Before the surgery, make sure that all your health conditions, including blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and other ailments, are under control.
• Fill out any necessary paperwork for leave before the procedure. Rest after surgery will promote quick healing and recovery. Driving and lifting any heavy items should be avoided at all costs.

Advantages of a hysterectomy
This surgery can improve one’s quality of life. Fibroids and endometriosis cause chronic pain, and this surgery can help treat the conditions. It can stop and prevent severe bleeding and manage certain cancer and other complications.

Side effects of hysterectomy
While this procedure is considered relatively safe, it may cause infection, excessive bleeding during or after treatment, harm to other organs, and blood clots. Furthermore, it may cause serious side effects such as breathing difficulties, cardiac problems, or bowel obstruction. Any alarming signals in the body must be reported to a doctor at the earliest.