It is not easy to make a decision to have your uterus removed. Such a decision effectively ends your future hopes of becoming a parent once more and abruptly throws you into menopause. You know the discomfort that can come with this state including hot flashes and mood swings. However, there comes a time when a hysterectomy is needed, not only used in family planning and infertility in Napa
. At Adventist Health, John H. Kirk, MD, and his team of experts have successfully helped several patients get relief from pain and discomfort. Hysterectomy has also proved to be life-saving among patients suffering from life-threatening conditions.
Below, we examine the reasons why it may be best for you to undergo a hysterectomy.
1. Cancer
We start with the most ominous reason, cancer. This is a leading cause of hysterectomies in the United States. If you have been diagnosed with an aggressive strain of cancer affecting one of the organs in the reproductive system, this may work for you. Your doctor will go this route as it is the first line of defense in stopping the spread of the disease.
Even though the main goal of the procedure is to remove the uterus, your doctor may as well remove other surrounding organs including the fallopian tube, cervix, and ovaries, if they are found to have been affected by the spread of the disease.
2. Uterine Fibroids and Heavy Bleeding During Menstruation
You may develop fibroids before reaching menopause. If your growths fail to respond to medication, your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy. Uterine wall growths can lead to heavy and painful periods and delicate pregnancies, which can put your life at risk. Change in hormone levels and persistent infections in the reproductive system can lead to heavy and inconsistent periods.
3. Endometriosis
This is a condition where the uterine lining grows outside this reproductive organ. Endometriosis affects 1 in every 10 women in the United States. The condition can cause you to have heavy periods and pain and discomfort when out of the menstrual cycle.
4. Uterine Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse is a common problem in women after menopause. The condition occurs when the uterus collapses into your vagina. Your doctor will start with conservative treatment methods including pessaries or pelvic floor exercises, to help support and strengthen the uterus. If the initial treatment plan fails to give you relief, John H. Kirk, MD, will recommend a hysterectomy to help permanently solve the problem.Parting with part of your reproductive system can be emotionally draining. You will require a skilled surgeon to take you through this delicate procedure. We understand that this is a life-altering procedure, which is why you can count on us to provide services that are full of empathy, compassion, and gentleness. Adventist Health provides the latest surgical procedures to help reduce risks associated with surgery and decrease the downtime after surgery. Visit us today to learn more about hysterectomy to help decide if it can be your best bet.
Amna khan