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Do You Really Need a Hysterectomy? |
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If you've been diagnosed with fibroids and your doctor has recommended a hysterectomy without discussing less invasive therapies, you owe yourself a second opinion. A hysterectomy (the surgical removal of the uterus) is a major operation. In addition to a lengthy hospital stay and recovery period at home, there's a 30% complication rate and obvious issues regarding a woman's sexuality, fertility and quality of life once the uterus is removed. |
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40% of All Hysterectomies Are Due to Fibroids. |
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Most are unnecessary. While a hysterectomy will certainly cure a fibroid problem, many women don't want to lose their uterus. Remember, fibroids are usually not cancerous. You don't have to rush into anything. Research your options. |
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Types of Hysterectomy. |
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Removal of the entire uterus is a total hysterectomy. Leaving the cervix but removing the rest of the uterus, is called a sub-total hysterectomy. Removing ovaries ( bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy), is a separate decision which a patient and her doctor make before surgery. Hysterectomies are performed in one of two ways; either through an incision in the stomach (Abdominal Hysterectomy) or through the vagina (Vaginal Hysterectomy.) Abdominal hysterectomies are the most common form and typically require the longest recovery time.
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