What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove the uterus. The surgery may also include removal of other gynecologic structures, including the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and cervix. Since the uterus is removed, you can no longer become pregnant.

Hysterectomies can be performed in three different ways: vaginal, abdominal, and laparoscopic surgery. Your doctor determines the best type of surgery for your hysterectomy based on your symptoms, overall health, and age.

Who can benefit from a hysterectomy?

Hysterectomies are a common surgery performed to treat:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic support problems
• Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Gynecologic cancer

If you are suffering from these symptoms, a hysterectomy provides relief from discomfort and excessive bleeding, and may help with incontinence issues.

What is a myomectomy?

A myomectomy is a surgery to remove uterine fibroids. Similar to hysterectomies, a myomectomy can be performed in different ways, including abdominal, laparoscopic, and hysteroscopic surgeries. The type of surgery you receive will depend on the location and number of fibroids that are being removed.

Who can benefit from a myomectomy?

Women of childbearing age are the most likely to develop uterine fibroids that require a myomectomy. A myomectomy provides relief from uterine fibroid symptoms, including:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Menstrual periods lasting more than one week
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation
• Backache or leg pains

For younger women who have not reached menopause and would like the option to have more children, a myomectomy is a good choice for treatment of uterine fibroids.

What happens during a hysterectomy or myomectomy?

During either surgery, you are placed under sedation in the hospital while your doctor performs the surgery. Depending on the location and type of surgery you are having, your doctor makes small incisions to expose the uterus.

During a hysterectomy, your uterus is removed. In a myomectomy, your uterus is spared while your doctor removes individual fibroids from its walls. Each surgery takes a few hours, and you recover in the hospital for two to three days before returning home.

Laparoscopic surgeries tend to have faster recoveries because the incisions are much smaller than traditional surgeries. Your doctor at Atlanta Body Institute helps you understand your options in order to achieve the best outcome.

If you are considering a hysterectomy or myomectomy, call Atlanta Body Institute to learn about your options.

*Individual results may vary