Hysterectomy

What is hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is the process through which surgical removal of the uterus takes place. However the term 'hysterectomy' has a broader concept as it is usually referred to the surgical removal of other reproductive organs also along with the uterus. The type of surgery one needs to go through depends on what organs are to be removed and what is their particular condition. It is the doctor who first assesses patient's medical condition and then only prescribes the best thing required for the person.

When is hysterectomy necessary?

The common causes behind the necessity of hysterectomies are to relieve the discomfort caused by fibroids and the non-cancerous tumors. These are the tumors that can become large in future and cause pain and heavy bleeding. Around forty percent of the hysterectomies are performed because of these reasons.

On the other hand twenty percent hysterectomies are performed because of uterine prolepses? It means the dropping of the uterus from its usual position and this occurs when the ligaments that hold the uterus in place weaken. This weakening may be because of childbearing or a general loss of elasticity in the tissues.

Yet another twenty percent hysterectomies are performed because of the Endometriosis. The problem of Endometriosis generates when a group of cells from the lining of the uterus (known as the endometrium) start growing outside the uterus and get attached to other organs of the abdominal cavity.

Around ten percent hysterectomies are performed as part of a treatment regimen for cancer.

'Endometrial hyperplasia' is also one of the main causes for hysterectomy. Over-thickening of the lining of the uterus causes it.