You want a hysterectomy? Here are the different types.
A hysterectomy is one of the most performed surgeries in gynecology. It involves the removal of the uterus, the cervix, the Fallopian tubes and sometimes other reproductive organs such as the ovaries. The goal of a hysterectomy can be to treat conditions like abnormal uterine bleeding, gender dysphoria, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, fibroids, or even cancer. Hysterectomies can be performed in several different ways: vaginal, laparoscopic, laparoscopic-assisted vaginal, and abdominal. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to consider which type is best suited to your needs.
Vaginal hysterectomy
During this minimally invasive procedure, the uterus is removed through an incision made in the vagina. As such, recovery is quick, and it is less painful. However, a vaginal hysterectomy may not be suitable for all women due to anatomical reasons or size of the uterus.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
This is also a minimally invasive procedure where a thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) is used to access the uterus and other pelvic structures through several small incisions on the abdomen. This is also how a hysterectomy using a robot is performed. This technique has reduced healing time and shorter hospital stay, and less postoperative pain due to the small incisions. This method may not be appropriate for someone with large fibroids or cancer.
Also included in this category is the laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy. This is an option for candidates who meet criteria for a vaginal hysterectomy, but who may also have other pathology – like an ovarian cyst – that needs to be removed first. The hysterectomy is started using the laparoscopic instruments in the abdomen and completed through the vagina.
Abdominal Hysterectomy
In this approach – which is the most invasive – your surgeons will make an incision in the bikini area (like a C-Section) or in the midline (up and down your belly). This method is ideal for a large fibroid uterus, large ovarian cysts, and GYN cancers. While the incisions provide better visualization and access to the organs, this mode has longer recovery time and hospital stay, and increased risk of infections.
Most importantly: speak to your doctor!
If you are considering having a hysterectomy, it is important that you speak with your doctor about which type might best meet your needs. Each type of hysterectomy has its own pros and cons depending on your severity of symptoms, health status, size and shape of your anatomy, and pathology that needs to be removed.
About the author: Dr. Sanchez is a Board Certified Obstetrician Gynecologist. If you’re in the Miami area and are looking for a new Ob/Gyn to talk to about these topics, you can always make an appointment by calling the clinic or booking online. She explores this and other subjects on her Instagram, so make sure to follow along!
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