The Right and Wrong Reasons for a Hysterectomy

If you are told that you need a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus), get a second opinion. Your medical insurance plan may even require it. Your condition may have other treatment options.

Hysterectomies are warranted for:

• Large fibroids.
• Severe hemorrhaging not controlled with medication.
• Irreversible damage from an untreated infection.
• Cancer (or precancer) of the cervix, ovary or uterus.

Alternative treatments exist for heavy, painful periods, fibroid tumors, endometriosis, and a prolapsed uterus. If these conditions don’t respond to more conservative treatment, then a hysterectomy may be warranted. So if you’re told you need a hysterectomy:

• Ask about alternatives to surgery.
• Ask for specific details about the condition you’re being treated for and the expected outcome of surgery.
• Ask if your ovaries can be spared, to prevent shutting off the release of estrogen and, subsequently, premature menopause.
• Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you question the need for a hysterectomy.