A hysterectomy is a major surgery that involves removing the uterus entirely, and the decision to undergo this surgery should not be taken lightly. While it can be an effective treatment for uterine fibroids, it’s not the best choice for everyone due to the serious nature of its undertaking. Let’s explore the pros and cons of having a hysterectomy as a solution to fighting fibroids.
Pros of Having a Hysterectomy
It must be noted that a hysterectomy is, for the purposes of combatting fibroids, an effective solution. It will solve the problem of fibroids because it involves removing the uterus, where fibroids grow. Your quality of life will increase due to the reduction in pain, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms that historically affect the daily activities of people suffering from fibroids.
The strongest positive factor is that a hysterectomy is a permanent solution to fibroids — they can not return once the uterus is removed. This procedure can provide long-term relief for women who have not found relief through other treatments.
If you are looking for a long-term solution and have not found relief through other treatments, including fibroid surgery, it may be worth considering a hysterectomy.
Cons of Having a Hysterectomy
The cons of having a hysterectomy should be strongly considered by anyone weighing their options on this major surgery. As it is, in fact, a surgery, you’ll need to keep in mind that there are standard surgical risks: you could experience bleeding, infection, or organ damage. Recovery time is another thing you must consider.
However, the largest consideration is that the uterus itself is removed. This means that the potential to carry a pregnancy is permanently unrecoverable. If you are in a position in which you want to have a child, a hysterectomy should be ruled out.
Additional risks of a hysterectomy include hormonal changes and emotional impact. Hormonal changes can affect mood, libido, and other aspects of your health. In terms of emotional impact, some women may also go through depressive states, grief, and anxiety due to the loss of the uterus.
So, What About Fibroids?
You must weigh the options and determine whether having a hysterectomy is right for you and your situation. Know that there are options when it comes to fibroids treatment — such as regular exercise, supplements, diet choices, and even minimally invasive procedures such as uterine fibroid embolization. There are even other, less intensive fibroid removal surgery options such as the myomectomy.
Fibroid surgery may be a solution for people who are not helped by milder remedies but are not prepared to pursue a hysterectomy. Remember, the best treatment for fibroids is the one that is in line with your lifestyle and needs, and you should always talk with your doctor before starting any treatment plan. To learn more, contact us here.