Procedure guide · Gynaecology
A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus. Afterwards periods stop and pregnancy is no longer possible. MedlinePlus explains that doctors usually try medicines or other procedures first for problems such as fibroids or heavy bleeding. It is a major decision. Make sure every alternative has been discussed before you plan surgery abroad.
What is a hysterectomy?
MedlinePlus describes three types. A total hysterectomy removes the whole uterus including the cervix and is the most common. A partial or subtotal hysterectomy removes the upper uterus and leaves the cervix. A radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix, nearby tissue and upper vagina, mainly for certain cancers. The ovaries and fallopian tubes may also be removed. MedlinePlus notes that removing both ovaries usually brings on menopause symptoms.
MedlinePlus lists four approaches. Abdominal surgery uses a cut in the lower abdomen. Vaginal surgery uses an incision in the vagina. Laparoscopic surgery uses a thin camera through small incisions. In robotic surgery the surgeon controls robotic arms through small incisions. Not every approach suits every patient.
Who may be suitable for a hysterectomy?
MedlinePlus lists reasons including fibroids, endometriosis that other treatment has not helped and uterine prolapse. It also lists cancer of the uterus, cervix, ovaries or endometrium, persistent heavy bleeding and, as a last resort, pelvic pain from the uterus. It notes that hysterectomy does not relieve all pelvic pain. A gynaecologist decides whether surgery is right after examining you and reviewing tests.
Think about future pregnancy
A hysterectomy ends the possibility of pregnancy. If you may want children, ask about other options such as treatments that keep the uterus. Your gynaecologist can explain them.
What reports does a gynaecologist ask for?
- Pelvic ultrasound or MRI reports with image files
- Results of any endometrial biopsy or cervical screening
- Blood tests including haemoglobin, especially if bleeding is heavy
- A history of treatments tried, such as medicines, hormone treatment or procedures
- Notes of earlier abdominal or pelvic surgery and caesarean sections
- A full list of medicines and general health conditions
How should you plan the trip?
- Consultation and examination in India, with repeat tests as needed
- Agreement on the type of hysterectomy and approach
- Pre-operative and anaesthetic checks
- Surgery and a hospital stay decided by the team
- Tissue results, which may affect follow-up
- Before flying: ask your surgeon when it is safe for you to fly
- Home: follow-up with your own gynaecologist or doctor
MedlinePlus notes that recovery time depends on the approach and that abdominal surgery usually takes longer to recover from. Ask your surgeon what to expect for you. Bring an attendant for the hospital stay and the journey home. Ask about lifting limits for luggage.
What should you ask the gynaecologist?
- Have all alternatives to hysterectomy been considered for me?
- Which type and approach do you recommend, and why?
- Will my ovaries be removed, and what would that mean for menopause?
- When will tissue results be ready, and how will I receive them?
- When can I fly and lift a suitcase?
- What follow-up will I need at home?
IndiaMedica helps you share reports and compare written plans. The treating gynaecologist decides what is suitable.
Questions people ask
What are the risks of a hysterectomy?
MedlinePlus lists serious risks including heavy bleeding, infection and blood clots. Risks vary with the approach and your health. Your surgeon should explain your own risks before you sign the consent form.
Will a hysterectomy cause menopause?
Removing the uterus stops periods. MedlinePlus explains that removing both ovaries usually brings on menopause symptoms. If the ovaries are kept, hormone changes are different. Ask your gynaecologist whether your ovaries will be removed and why.
Is laparoscopic hysterectomy possible for everyone?
No. MedlinePlus notes that laparoscopic surgery is not suitable for every fibroid type, and vaginal surgery may not suit very large fibroids. The size of the uterus and earlier surgery also matter. Your gynaecologist decides the approach.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.