Hysterectomy

When conservative treatments aren’t enough to address fibroids, endometriosis, or other reproductive health issues, you might be a candidate for a hysterectomy. At The Howard Center, with offices throughout Georgia, our experienced gynecology team has performed over 1,800 hysterectomies using advanced minimally invasive techniques. Learn more about your options for a hysterectomy by calling The Howard Center office nearest you or requesting a consultation online today. 

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove your uterus and possibly your other reproductive organs, including your fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Following a hysterectomy, you can no longer become pregnant, and your menstrual cycles will end. Women who need their ovaries removed will enter early menopause sometime after the procedure has been completed.

Why would I need a hysterectomy?

Our gynecology team at The Howard Center may recommend a hysterectomy to address conditions not treatable with conservative therapies. These conditions might include:

• Large fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Uterine prolapse
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Chronic vaginal bleeding

You may also be a candidate for a hysterectomy if you have uterine prolapse, a condition where your pelvic muscles weaken and allow your uterus to fall into your vaginal canal.

Because you can’t become pregnant after a hysterectomy, you’ll need to be sure that you’re done having children. Our team will then ensure you’re healthy enough to undergo surgery.

What’s a minimally invasive hysterectomy?

Our team at The Howard Center often uses minimally invasive, laparoscopic techniques to complete a hysterectomy. This type of surgery requires only small incisions to access and remove your uterus and cervix. Your ovaries and the fallopian tubes may or may not be removed, depending on the reason for your hysterectomy. 

Depending on your specific situation, we can use a total laparoscopic or a laparoscopic supracervical approach to your surgery.

Total laparoscopic hysterectomy

A total laparoscopic hysterectomy involves general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Your surgeon makes incisions in your vagina and near your navel to remove your uterus and cervix.

Laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy

A laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy involves general anesthesia and small incisions to remove your uterus. However, your cervix remains in place, so you won’t need vaginal incisions.

The specialized laparoscopic training our team at The Howard Center has ensured that even patients with a very large uterus or a history of abdominal surgeries can benefit from laparoscopic techniques for a hysterectomy. We feel that a minimally invasive approach is best for the patient because it is proven to be a safe procedure with minimal scars and recovery time.

If you’re not a candidate for a minimally invasive hysterectomy, our team can discuss other options for your treatment.

How long does it take to recover from a hysterectomy?

After a minimally invasive hysterectomy, you can expect to go home several hours after your procedure. It takes about two weeks to heal from a hysterectomy before you can return to your usual activities. You also need to avoid sexual activity for up to six weeks to ensure you heal fully.

At The Howard Center, we provide comprehensive after-care services following a hysterectomy to protect your overall health. We also offer hormone replacement services for women who start menopause following a hysterectomy.

To find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive hysterectomy, call The Howard Center office nearest you or request a consultation online today.