Description

Women may suffer from heavy vaginal bleeding, bleeding inbetween periods (intra-menstrual bleeding) or prolonged bleeding of periods. One method to deal with these problems is to remove or destroy the lining (endometrium) of the womb (uterus) and this procedure is called endometrial ablation.

A hysterectomy can be done through an incision through the tummy or through the vagina. At the same time as removing the womb, the fallopian tubes and ovaries can also be removed (bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy), or retained as required if the operation is done with an open incision through the tummy.

After a hysterectomy, a women will have no more periods and will never be able to fall pregnant again.

Abdominal Hysterectomy: a general anaesthetic is used and an incision made along the lower part of the tummy, over the pelvis at the "bikini line". The uterus is then separated from the surrounding tissues and taken out. In a sub-total hysterectomy, the cervix is retained whereas in an total hysterectomy, the cervix is completely removed as well. If the ovaries and tubes are diseased, then these are taken out at the same time. The vaginal incision is closed off and then the operation completed by closing the tummy incision. If the ovaries are removed, you may develop the symptoms of menopause such as hot spells or flushes and dizziness. This can be treated with HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

Vaginal Hysterectomy: is procedure is generally prefered as the healing times are quicker. A general anaesthetic is used. An incision is made in the upper end of the vagina and therefore, no visible scars are present. The womb is then taken out through the vagina and the vaginal wound closed. However, if it is deemed necessary to remove the Fallopian tubes and ovaries also, an abdominal incision may be required. This is also possible if difficulties are encountered through the operation, such as the womb being to large to remove vaginally.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: the womb is removed in much the same way as in a vaginal procedure but a laparoscope is inserted through the tummy to release the womb from the surrounding structures.