Deciding When a Hysterectomy is Appropriate

If you have a condition that is not cancer, such as fibroids, endometriosis, or uterine prolapse, there are often other treatments that should be tried first. In most cases, a hysterectomy need not be done immediately. There is time for you to get more information and look into possible alternatives.

In cases of serious disease, such as cancer, a hysterectomy may not be optional and may be a life-saving choice. Before you decide what to do, it is important that you understand your condition and your options for dealing with it.

If you are suffering from continuing, severe problems with pelvic pain and abnormal uterine bleeding, and other treatments have not helped, a hysterectomy may provide welcome relief. Studies have shown that a hysterectomy often improves sexual functioning and quality of life for women suffering from these problems.

On the other hand, some women suffer serious complications from hysterectomy, even death. Most complications are less serious, and may include reactions to anesthetics, pain, infection, bleeding, and fatigue. Sometimes other pelvic organs such as the bladder and bowel are injured during a hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is also linked to urinary incontinence (problems holding your urine) and loss of ovarian function and early menopause. Some women experience depression and sexual dysfunction after hysterectomy.

If you are told that you should have a hysterectomy:

• Talk to your health care provider about your options. Ask about other treatments that are available for your condition.

• Consider getting a second opinion from another health care provider.

• Ask about possible complications of surgery.

• Keep in mind that every woman is different and every situation is different. A good treatment choice for one woman may not be the best choice for another.

• Work with your health care provider to choose the treatment that is best for you.