A hysterectomy is a common procedure for many women that removes your uterus and prevents you from getting pregnant in the future. Samuel Van Kirk, M.D. OBGYN in Redding, California, has nearly two decades of experience performing procedures such as hysterectomies. If you’re interested in learning more about hysterectomy and how it can improve your life if you have endometriosis or fibroids, book an appointment with Dr. Van Kirk online or by phone today.

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What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of your reproductive organs. Your uterus, or womb, is removed in a hysterectomy, and sometimes your ovaries and fallopian tubes as well. Hysterectomy is a common procedure and is an option for women who no longer want to get pregnant, as well as a treatment option for health concerns like cancer or endometriosis.

Hysterectomy is considered a major surgery, so it’s important to understand the risks, potential complications, and results of the procedure. If both of your ovaries are removed, your body will begin menopause due to the hormonal change.

Who should consider a hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is a popular procedure for women who don’t want children or who are done having children. Because the surgery removes your uterus, it’s no longer possible for you to become pregnant, making hysterectomies permanent forms of birth control.

There are several other reasons to consider having a hysterectomy besides sterilization, including:

  • Cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Endometriosis
  • Chronic pelvic pain

A hysterectomy is a permanent, irreversible surgery. It’s important to be completely sure you don’t want to have any more children before you have a hysterectomy. For women who don’t want to become pregnant again, hysterectomy can treat a variety of health conditions and help improve their quality of life.

What happens during a hysterectomy?

During a hysterectomy, Dr. Van Kirk removes your uterus. A partial hysterectomy involves removing only the uterus, while a total hysterectomy removes both the uterus and the cervix. If both of your ovaries are removed during surgery, you can expect to have symptoms of menopause as you recover.

Hysterectomies are generally routine, safe procedures. You may have an overnight stay in the hospital, and be sure to follow Dr. Van Kirk’s guidelines for recovery. However, there is always a risk for complication with surgery, so be sure to talk with Dr. Van Kirk’s staff beforehand to understand the risks.

Are there alternatives to hysterectomy?

For many conditions, such as fibroids and endometriosis, a hysterectomy isn’t your only option. Many women find noninvasive treatments, such as medication, are effective in helping them manage their symptoms. However, In cases of cancer hysterectomy is sometimes the best option to keep you as healthy as possible.

It’s time to learn more about your options when it comes to hysterectomy. Whether you’re done having children or have endometriosis, fibroids, or another condition, you have options. Call Samuel Van Kirk, M.D. OBGYN or request an appointment online today to meet with Dr. Van Kirk and his team.