A hysterectomy is a surgical operation in which all or part of the uterus is removed. A hysterectomy is performed for a number of reasons, including relieving the symptoms presented by uterine fibroids. If you have uterine cancer, your only choice may be to remove the uterus. However, an overwhelming majority of hysterectomies in developed countries – like Australia and the United States – are performed for benign conditions such as uterine fibroids.
Traditionally when conservative treatments fail or are deemed unsuitable, a hysterectomy is offered. However, a hysterectomy is a major surgery that requires 3 – 5 days stay in hospital and 5 – 6 weeks of recovery, carries the risks of a major surgery and is associated with long-term adverse side effects.
A hysterectomy is a major surgery. The risk of severe complications from hysterectomy remains significant, at 3.5% to 11% to date in 2019. In addition to the immediate surgical risks, hysterectomy patients may experience long-term side effects like pelvic prolapse, urinary incontinence, early onset of menopause, increased cardiovascular risk, sexual dysfunction and constipation.
Since there are now many less invasive means to treat fibroid-related symptoms, hysterectomies should be considered as the last resort, when all other less invasive methods have failed. Depending on your specific situation, uterine fibroid embolisation, endometrial ablation, hysteroscopic resection, Mirena IUD or MRgFUS treatment may be your less invasive choice.