Every year, about 600,000 hysterectomies are performed in the United States, making it one of the most common surgical procedures for women. Although removal of the uterus may sound extreme, there are situations when having a hysterectomy is the best option to help you stay healthy.
Paul W. Morrison, M.D., has extensive experience performing hysterectomies at his practice in Newburgh, Indiana, which serves the Evansville area. He’s an expert in using both traditional and minimally invasive techniques, and in this post, he explains when a hysterectomy might be the best option.
It’s worth noting that while hysterectomy may be recommended for any of the reasons below, in some cases, there may be alternative treatments that could also work. Before recommending a hysterectomy, Dr. Morrison performs an in-depth medical evaluation to ensure your treatment is the best one for your health and medical needs.
Hysterectomy is often the most appropriate treatment for cancer affecting the uterus, ovaries, cervix, or endometrium. Other possible therapies include radiation and chemotherapy. Depending on the type of cancer and its stage, Dr. Morrison may recommend more than one therapy.
Uterine prolapse happens when the muscles and ligaments that support the uterus weaken, and the uterus “drops” or descends into the vaginal canal. Uterine prolapse can be very painful, and it can lead to bowel and bladder issues as well.
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows in areas outside of the uterus. Called endometrial implants, these growths often form on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or on the outside of the uterus, but they may also form elsewhere in your abdomen or even in your chest cavity.
Endometriosis causes abnormal bleeding and significant pain, particularly during ovulation and menstruation. While implants can be removed individually, they often regrow unless the uterus is removed.
Adenomyosis is similar to endometriosis, except instead of growing outside the uterus, the endometrial tissue grows inside the muscular wall of the uterus. Like endometriosis, adenomyosis can cause considerable pain.
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors made up of muscle and connective tissues that form in the uterine wall. Fibroids can cause a host of symptoms, including heavy or abnormal bleeding and pain.
Heavy menstrual bleeding can happen for many reasons, including hormonal shifts during perimenopause, which is the period that leads up to menopause. Heavy bleeding can disrupt your routine. For example, it can interrupt your sleep and make it hard to do daily activities, travel, or take part in special events. Over time, heavy bleeding can also lead to anemia.
Having a hysterectomy is never a decision that’s taken lightly. But there are some instances where the procedure is the best option for helping you stay healthy. To learn more, call 812-490-5200 or book an appointment online with the practice of Paul W. Morrison, M.D., today.
