Hysterectomy

Your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy to treat one of many conditions. 

Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are small, noncancerous growths in the uterus that typically occur during childbearing years. When they grow, multiply, or distort the size and shape of the uterus, they can cause pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, or cramping. Less common symptoms may include difficulty emptying your bladder or moving your bowels.

Endometriosis
Endometriosis causes inflammation in the lining of the abdomen and can trigger pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility.

Uterine Prolapse
Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus drops into the vaginal canal. It is usually caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles and can lead to back pain, difficulty emptying your bladder or moving your bowel; leakage of urine or feces; painful sex; or pelvic pressure.

Cancer
Uterine cancers, such as endometrial cancer or cervical cancer, may require a hysterectomy if other treatments fail. Sometimes ovarian cancers may require a hysterectomy. Hysterectomy may be recommended if you have genetic mutations that can increase your risk of cancer in the future.

There are several different types of hysterectomy. Your doctor will recommend the type of hysterectomy that is right for you. Their recommendation will be based on your condition, age, and your risk of developing cancer in the future. After a hysterectomy, you won’t be able to get pregnant or menstruate. If you are planning to start or add to your family, different options may be recommended.

Total Hysterectomy
The uterus, including the cervix, is removed. The fallopian tubes are also routinely (but not always) removed at the time of a hysterectomy. This is called a bilateral salpingectomy.

Subtotal Hysterectomy
Sometimes referred to as a supracervical hysterectomy, the uterus is removed, but the cervix is not removed. The fallopian tubes are also often removed during a subtotal hysterectomy. Leaving the cervix means you will need to continue with regular cervical cancer screenings.

Total Hysterectomy with Salpingo-Oophorectomy
The uterus, the cervix, and the ovaries are removed.

Radical Hysterectomy 
A radical hysterectomy is considered if you have cancer and chemotherapy or radiation are not appropriate options. The uterus, the cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are removed. Part of your vagina, lymph glands, and other tissue may also be removed. 
 

Your surgeon may use one of the following approaches to perform a hysterectomy. Whenever possible, we use a minimally invasive approach so you experience less pain and recover faster.

Laparoscopic
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive approach because it allows your surgeon to access your uterus through small incisions that are made in your lower abdomen. A tiny camera is inserted through an incision in your belly button while other tools are inserted through other small incisions. The uterus is removed in small parts through the incisions or through the vagina. A robotic hysterectomy is a type of laparoscopic hysterectomy that uses a specialized surgical system that attaches to the laparoscopic instruments.

Vaginal
A vaginal hysterectomy is a minimally invasive approach that does not require any external incisions. The uterus is accessed and removed entirely through the vagina. This approach is more common if you have uterine prolapse.

Abdominal
A six-to-eight-inch surgical incision is made in your lower abdomen. This approach is more common with conditions that impact pelvic anatomy, such as large masses or severe scar tissue. 

Personalized Care
We develop personalized treatment plans that take into account your age and health goals. We explore all nonsurgical treatment options, including hormone therapies and noninvasive options, before recommending hysterectomy.

Skilled in Minimally Invasive Gynecology Surgery
Our minimally invasive gynecology surgeons are known for their expertise and skill in laparoscopic and vaginal hysterectomy surgery. These minimally invasive techniques are designed to spare healthy tissue, making your recovery from surgery faster and more comfortable.

Advanced Robotic Surgery
Our operating rooms are equipped with high-definition imaging equipment that can help increase the precision of your surgical procedure. When appropriate, robotic equipment may be used during laparoscopic hysterectomy. This sophisticated instrumentation can assist the surgeon in completing a complex surgery in a minimally invasive manner.