5 Important Reasons to Consider a Hysterectomy

The surgical removal of the uterus, better known as hysterectomy, is a major medical procedure that many women may undergo. If you're considering this surgery, we recognize the deeply personal nature of your decision, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

Board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Helard  Ballon-Hennings, MD, FACOG, and our expert team at  Desert Hills Care Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, determine if you’re a good candidate for a hysterectomy and offer minimally invasive procedures with reduced bleeding and downtime for your best outcome. 

In the meantime, we’ll help you understand five key reasons for considering this surgery so you can make an informed choice.

1. Uterine fibroids 

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause a range of symptoms. When these fibroids cause severe symptoms that don’t respond to other treatments, a hysterectomy can provide relief and improve your quality of life. Look out for the following symptoms: 

Heavy menstrual bleeding 

Fibroids can lead to abnormally heavy and prolonged menstrual periods, resulting in anemia and fatigue. 

Pelvic pain and pressure 

The size and location of fibroids can cause major pelvic discomfort and pressure. 

Frequent urination 

Large fibroids can press against your bladder, leading to a frequent need to urinate. 

2. Endometriosis 

Another major reason to consider a hysterectomy is for relief from endometriosis. This painful condition is characterized by tissue similar to the lining inside your uterus growing outside of it, causing: 

Chronic pelvic pain 

Endometriosis often leads to severe, debilitating pain that can put a major strain on your daily activities and goals. 

Painful periods 

If you have endometriosis, you most likely experience extremely painful menstrual cycles. 

Infertility 

In some cases, endometriosis can even affect fertility, making it difficult to conceive. 

3. Uterine cancer or precancerous conditions 

When it comes to uterine cancer or precancerous conditions, a hysterectomy is not only often necessary but also life-saving. Undergoing surgery is often the best way to ensure that cancer doesn’t spread or recur. Here’s what you need to know: 

Uterine cancer 

This includes endometrial cancer, which is cancer of the uterine lining, and other types of uterine cancer. 

Precancerous changes 

Conditions such as complex atypical hyperplasia can also develop into cancer if left untreated. 

4. Severe pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) 

If you’re suffering from severe pelvic inflammatory disease, an infection of the female reproductive organs, a hysterectomy may be necessary to remove the source of infection and prevent further health issues down the line. Here’s what PID can cause if left untreated: 

Chronic pelvic pain  

Long-term infection can lead to scarring and chronic pain that interferes with your overall quality of life. 

Reproductive damage 

PID can also damage your fallopian tubes and ovaries, leading to infertility and other complications. 

5. Prolapsed uterus 

Last but not least, you may want to consider a hysterectomy for a prolapsed uterus. This occurs when your uterus descends into or outside of the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. Symptoms include: 

Pelvic discomfort 

A feeling of heaviness or pulling in your pelvis. 

Urinary problems 

Difficulty urinating or frequent urinary tract infections. 

Bowel issues 

Overall difficulty with bowel movements. 

If you’re suffering from any of these conditions and looking for answers, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. Our team is here to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment options. While the decision to undergo a hysterectomy should not be taken lightly, understanding the reasons why it might be necessary can help you get one step closer to choosing the right path for your overall health.

To learn more and take control of your health, call Desert Hills Care Center at 702-800-7008 today or book online with us.