A hysterectomy may be needed in order to save your life. However, for those that have a choice, they should look at all the options before resorting to hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is major surgery and should not be entered into lightly. You should discuss all of your options with your doctor. If you have fibroids, or endometriosis or adenomyosis you may benefit from other treatments before considering hysterectomy. These other treatments and/or surgeries are discussed more below. A woman should also consider, if you are having your ovaries removed as well, that you will need to be on some type of HRT (hormone replacement therapy). Without HRT you are putting yourself at risk for possibly developing heart conditions or weak brittle bones. HRT reduces the risk of developing these conditions. If you will be having your ovaries removed you need to discuss HRT and the risks and benefits of HRT with your doctor. Any women that is experiencing problems with her uterus and/or ovaries should discuss with their doctor which treatments might be best for you and which treatments you might try before consenting to hysterectomy.

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Other Treatments & Surgeries Your doctor may suggest that you try other treatments before having a hysterectomy. These treatments may include: Using an appliance (such as a vaginal pessary) to hold the uterus, bladder and bowel in place Doing kegel exercises or using vaginal weights to help to strengthen the pelvic muscles Avoiding constipation and emptying the bladder often to help ease the pressure of weakened pelvic muscles Quitting smoking and avoiding caffeine because they increase the risk of leaking urine Taking estrogen to help reduce urine leakage and to help reduce heavy bleeding Taking other hormones or medications for abnormal uterine bleeding caused from endometriosis or adenomyosis Your doctor may suggest other surgeries to help correct problems with your uterus. The surgeries may include: A Myomectomy (surgery to remove fibroids or other tumors). This leaves the uterus intact. Often this surgery can be done through a woman’s vagina, avoiding any abdominal incisions. Laparoscopic surgery to remove adhesions or endometriosis D&C (Dilation and Curettage) to help control excessive bleeding Endometrial Ablation to remove the lining of a woman’s uterus. This type of surgery is done to reduce excessive bleeding. It can be done many different ways, including using a laser or heat. Operative Hysteroscopy to remove polyps, remove adhesions and some other procedures .  Below is a link to "Alternatives in Gynecology" where you can find more information on the above mentioned procedures Alternatives in Gynecology - Dr. Paul D. Indman

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