During your routine gynecological checkups, Dr. Ayalon will search for signs of cancer, fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, and prolapse of the uterus. These signs are serious circumstances, and Dr. Ayalon will ensure that you will receive the most appropriate treatment if you suffer from any of these. In some cases, the best option may be to have a hysterectomy procedure. A hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove a woman’s uterus or womb, and in some cases, the fallopian tubes and ovaries, as well.
Having a hysterectomy performed on you will mean you will no longer have menstrual periods and be unable to become pregnant. Dr. Ayalon understands that losing your ability to become pregnant is a significant and perhaps emotionally difficult condition to live with. Before a decision is reached, Dr. Ayalon will present you with several options and suggest a preferred course of action, which may or may not include a hysterectomy.
There are three different types of hysterectomies. A partial hysterectomy is the removal of just the upper part of the uterus. In these cases, the cervix is left in place. A total hysterectomy includes the removal of the entire uterus and cervix. This is the most common form of hysterectomy. Radical hysterectomies remove the entire uterus, surrounding tissue of the cervix, and the upper part of the vagina. Radical hysterectomies are usually performed only when cancer is involved.
Hysterectomies can be performed three different ways, and Dr. Ayalon is trained and experienced in each of them. Abdominal hysterectomies are similar to C-sections. With this method, a small incision is made in the abdomen, through which the uterus is removed. Vaginal hysterectomies involve the removal of the uterus through the vagina. This surgery is less invasive than the others, which can mean less scarring and faster recovery periods. A laparoscopic hysterectomy involves the use of specialized tools that are inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen. These instruments allow Dr. Ayalon to remove portions of the uterus rather than all at once. This procedure often results in less pain and scarring, and fast recovery.
Hysterectomies take some time to recover from. After the surgery is completed, Dr. Ayalon may have you stay in the hospital for one or two days. Abdominal hysterectomies take the longest to fully recover from. You should not return to your normal work activities until four to six weeks after your surgery, though you may be able to gradually resume work over your recovery period. Vaginal or laparoscopic surgeries require only three to four weeks of recovery time. During recovery, it’s important to avoid heavy lifting for a full six weeks.
Hysterectomies are one of the most common surgeries performed on women, second only to childbirth through cesarean section delivery. Like all surgical procedures, hysterectomies involve some risk. Dr. Ayalon will explain all possible outcomes of your surgery beforehand and make sure all risks are addressed. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Ayalon will happily answer them.