Hysterectomy FAQs

By Dr. Nelly Stoyanova

Here are some of the most common hysterectomy FAQs:

1. What is the definition of hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is the procedure of removing the uterus surgically. This is one of the most common surgeries performed in women. Even though hysterectomy refers to the surgical removal of the uterus, in some cases the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed as well.

2. Are there different types of hysterectomy?

There are three types of hysterectomy - complete, partial and radical.

3. What is complete hysterectomy?

Complete hysterectomy has the same meaning as total histerectomy e.g. complete removal of the uterus.

4. What is total hysterectomy?

Total (or complete) hysterectomy is referred to as the entire removal of the uterus (including the cervix).

5. What is partial hysterectomy?

Partial (supracervical) hysterectomy is a type of hysterectomy which removes the uterus, but retains the cervix.

6. What is radical hysterectomy?

Radical hysterectomy refers to the removal of the whole uterus, along with the cervix, upper portion of the vagina and the fibrous tissues that separate the cervix from the urinary bladder.

7. What are the reasons for hysterectomy?

The most common reasons for hysterectomies are uterine fibroids, abnormal vaginal bleeding, endometriosis, adenomyosis, cervical dysplasia or cancer (uterine, cervical or ovarian), etc.

8. What are the side effects after a hysterectomy?

Some of the side effects of hysterectomy may include:

No reproductive capacity, Hot flashes, Headaches, Insomnia, Hair loss, Constipation, Memory lapses, Anxiety, Irritability, Nervousness, Depression, Weight gain, Vaginal dryness, Low sex drive, Urinary problems, Heart palpitations, Pain in the joints

9. Are there any home remedies to eliminate hysterectomy side effects?

Besides natural progesterone supplementation, one of the best things a woman can do is to take fish or kril oil rich on omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Omega-3 fatty acids protect against heart disease by lowering blood triglycerides and reducing blood clotting. Kril oil help lower cholesterol and is recommended for arthritis.

10. How are hysterectomy and menopause related?

If your ovaries are removed, you will go through changes like menopause due to reduced level of sex hormones. These might include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, mood swings, or other symptoms. Women experiencing sexual disfunction may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (with or without testosterone replacement).

11. Can women expect any change in their sex life after a hysterectomy?

Some women miss the contractions of the uterus they have associated with orgasm. Others have a painful or uncomfortable intercourse due to shorter vagina. The removal of the cervix of the uterus may change the physical sensation experienced during intercourse.

12. Are there any hysterectomy complications?

13. Do I need to make any lifestyle changes after a hysterectomy?

Copyright Dr. Nelly Stoyanova

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Author's bio: Dr. Nelly Stoyanova is a physician, medical researcher and health behavior expert. She studies the effects of stress on heart disease, type 2 diabetes and sleep. Her website: Belly Fat, Stress and Baby Boomers (http://www.stress-fat-heart-solutions-for-boomers.com) evaluates sources of stress for people over 50 and provides great tips to balance your day-to-day stress and stay healthy. Turn your life around and benefit from her expertise. For individual guidance sessions or to schedule a public speaking event use the Contact page or email at drnstoyanova@gmail.com

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