Abdominal Hysterectomy
The procedure for removing the uterus through a woman’s abdomen is known as abdominal hysterectomy. Depending on her medical condition, the doctor may also require the removal of other reproductive organs such as the ovaries, cervix, and the fallopian tubes during this surgery.
A woman’s menstrual cycle stops after undergoing hysterectomy, making her unable to bear children. Contrary to popular misconceptions, a woman who has undergone hysterectomy can still have a healthy sexual life and does not have to worry about looking older. An added benefit is that she no longer has to practice birth control. In addition, the abdomen won’t become hollow because of the removed organs. The bowels take over the space occupied by these organs.
Although hysterectomy is capable of treating a lot of conditions, there are some conditions that may be completely treated only by incorporating other forms of treatment.
Methods Used in Abdominal Hysterectomy
An abdominal hysterectomy may be performed through any of the following methods: total, total with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and subtotal.
A subtotal hysterectomy is performed when only the uterus needs to be removed. In this procedure, the cervix is kept intact. This results in a faster completion of the procedure and the patient is less exposed to risks of blood loss, organ damage, vaginal prolapse, blood loss, and fever. Patients can also get discharged from the hospital sooner. Spotting should not be discounted, however, as this may result from the endometrial tissues that continue to reside in the endometrial canal. The risk of contracting cancer also remains because of the cervix that is kept.
When both the uterus and the cervix need to be removed then a total abdominal hysterectomy is performed, and when even the fallopian tubes and the ovaries must be removed then the procedure is called a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
Medical Conditions that Require Abdominal Hysterectomy
Abdominal hysterectomy may be required for the treatment of the following conditions:
* Cancer of the uterus or the cervix
* Fibroids
* Heavy bleeding
Measures to Take Before an Abdominal Hysterectomy
Make the following preparations to ensure that you’re in the best condition for a hysterectomy:
* Arrange for other people to look after your responsibilities at work and at home for the time that you’re gone.
* Do not take blood thinners at least five days before the surgery.
* Consult your doctor about the medicines that you should stop taking before your surgery. One of this is birth control medication, which can increase your risk of blood clots.
Taking Care of Yourself after the Surgery
The following are some dos and don’ts right after undergoing a hysterectomy:
* You may encounter vaginal bleeding for a while after your hysterectomy. Refrain from using tampons. Sanitary pads are a better alternative.
* If vaginal bleeding becomes prolonged and you get odorous secretions, be sure to inform your doctor to get proper advice and treatment.
* It’s alright to use pain killers to make yourself comfortable after your hysterectomy. Just make sure to follow your doctor’s prescription.
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