Who Needs a Hysterectomy?

Did you know that hysterectomy is the second most common surgical procedure for women of childbearing age in the United States? By age 60, more than a third of all American women have had this gynecological surgery that removes reproductive organs.

But not all hysterectomies performed are medically necessary. Removing your reproductive organs isn’t a decision to take lightly. It’s important to understand all of your options before having this life-altering surgery. 

At his private practice in White Plains and Queens, New York, board-certified OB/GYN Daniel S. Kushner, MD, specializes in helping women struggling with gynecological problems. Before recommending surgery, Dr. Kushner starts with more conservative treatments.

For some women, a hysterectomy may be the best solution. We’ve created this guide to help you understand more about this surgery and who needs a hysterectomy. 

What do I need to know about hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy is surgery to remove your reproductive organs. There are different types of hysterectomies. 

Some women have a total hysterectomy, meaning your surgeon removes your uterus and cervix. Other women have a supracervical, or partial, hysterectomy, which leaves your cervix intact.

Sometimes during a hysterectomy, your surgeon removes other reproductive organs, like your ovaries or fallopian tubes. This is called a radical hysterectomy. 

Hysterectomies come with risks, side effects, and consequences. Many of these are serious and can impact your quality of life, including an increased risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Hypertension and stroke
• Urinary tract problems (e.g., incontinence)
• Certain cancers (e.g., thyroid cancer)
• Additional surgery
• Early menopause
• Ovarian failure
• Osteoporosis
• Vasomotor symptoms (e.g., hot flashes)

Women who’ve had a hysterectomy also have a higher risk of developing a mental health disorder, such as depression.

When do women need a hysterectomy?

Although hysterectomies bring risks, they can also be an effective treatment for certain gynecological conditions. A hysterectomy is medically necessary when you have a life-threatening concern, such as:

• Serious complications during labor and childbirth, such as a ruptured uterus
• Invasive cancers (uterine, cervical, vaginal, ovarian, or of the fallopian tubes)
• Infection that doesn’t respond to other treatments
• Unmanageable uterine bleeding

You may also need a hysterectomy if you have severe pelvic prolapse that doesn’t respond well to other therapies. 

Are there alternatives to hysterectomy? 

Yes. Because hysterectomies come with long-term risks and consequences, it’s important to consider alternative treatments when possible. Dr. Kusner specializes in minimally invasive techniques that leave your reproductive organs intact, including:

• Lifestyle changes
• Hysteroscopy
• Endometrial ablation
• Uterine artery embolization
• Hormone therapy or birth control
• Prescription medications (e.g., Metformin)

The right treatment depends on the condition you have and your symptoms. 

For more information about hysterectomies or to learn what alternative treatment options may be available to you, schedule an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Kushner at the New York location nearest you.