Each year, more than a million women, at the United States undergo hysterectomy. In most cases, hysterectomy also includes oophorectomy or ovarian implants. In no other part of earth is hysterectomy performed this frequently. At least 33 percent of women have undergone hysterectomy. 90 percent of these surgeries are categorized as’elective’ surgery or surgery done by alternative rather than as a procedure.
Reasons for Hysterectomy
Because hysterectomy has such long-term results on a woman’s health, longevity, and sexuality it’s essential that women understand all possible consequences. You have to understand when it is essential to save your life and when hysterectomy is optional.
Non-elective reasons for hysterectomy:
- Invasive cancer of the reproductive system like the uterus, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina
- Intense disease (PID) that doesn’t respond to therapy.
- Severe and uncontrollable uterine bleeding.
- Intense complications during childbirth like a ruptured uterus.
Elective reasons for hysterectomy:
- Uterine prolapse
- Endometriosis
- Fibroid tumors
- Severe pelvic infections
- Some cases of hyperplasia
All of the above causes of elective hysterectomy are according to your personal medical condition.
Before picking hysterectomy you should carefully explore hysterectomy alternatives that may be available to you so you make an educated decision about what is right for you.
Many times, conditions for your healthcare provider proposes hysterectomy are successfully treated with alternatives to hysterectomy that include less invasive surgeries, herbal remedies, and observation.
Regrettably, many doctors see the uterus only essential for women wanting to have kids.
This often leaves women alone to explore potential alternatives. These days, many insurance providers require a second opinion prior to acceptance of hysterectomy in a bid to reduce the number of unnecessary hysterectomies. If your doctor insists on hysterectomy and it isn’t suitable for a life threatening situation, seek a second opinion and explore your options before making your choice.
Treatment of Uterine Fibroid Tumors
Surgical Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Myomectomy
- Endometrial ablation
- Uterine artery embolization
- Uterine balloon therapy
- Adhesiolysis
Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- GnRH agonists with add-back therapy
- Oral contraceptives
- Androgens
- RU-486
- Gestrinone
Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- NSAIDs – Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Other Alternatives
- Tracking
Treatment of Endometriosis
Surgical Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Excision of endometrial ablation
- Resection of cul-de-sac obliteration
- Nerve blocks
- Uterosacral nerve ablation
Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- GnRH agonists with add-back therapy
- Danazol
- Progestins
- Oral Contraceptives
- Tamoxifen
- RU-486
Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- NSAIDs
- Analgesics
- Anxiolytics
Other Options
- Tracking
- Biofeedback
- Acupuncture
- Hypnosis
- Lifestyle changes – diet and exercise
Treatment of Uterine Prolapse
Surgical Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Anterior or posterior colporrhaphy (vaginal wall repair)
- Laparoscopic or vaginal suspension
Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Estrogen
Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- None
Other Options
- Tracking
- Kegels
- Pessaries
- Electrical stimulation
- Urethral beads
- Periurethral injections of GAX, collagen, fat, or silicon
Treatment of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Surgical Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Dilation & curettage (D & C)
- Endometrial ablation
Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Progestins
- Estrogen
- Oral contraceptives
- Danazol
- Prostaglandin inhibitors
- GnRH agonists
- Antifibrinolytic agents
- Luteinizing hormone agonists
Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- None
Other Alternatives
- Observation
- Antidepressants
Treatment of Chronic Pelvic Pain
Surgical Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Adhesiolysis
- Nerve blocks
- Denervation procedure
- Uterosacral nerve ablation
Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- Danazol
- GnRH agonists with add-back therapy
- Oral Contraceptives
- Medroxyprogesterone acetate
Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Hysterectomy Alternatives
- NSAIDs
- Analgesics
- Nerve blocks
- Narcotics
Other Options
- Observation
- Counseling
- Biofeedback
- Relaxation
- Trigger point injections
- Acupuncture
- Psychotropic medications
- Antidepressants
- Physical treatment
