The National Family Health Survey-4 (2015-2016) found that 6% of Indian women aged 30-49 years had received a hysterectomy. This procedure surgically removes an affected uterus. Usually, laparoscopic hysterectomy is preferred to traditional surgery. Laparoscopy uses several small incisions unlike one large incision used in standard surgery. Hence, laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive whereas standard hysterectomy involves major surgery. So, laparoscopy ensures less pain or discomfort, a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery or return to regular activities.
Here are the 5 conditions that can be treated with laparoscopic hysterectomy.
5 Reasons to Choose Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
- Uterine fibroids
These noncancerous growths might form in your uterus. Fibroids in the uterus can cause pain and heavy bleeding. To treat them, the doctor may initially recommend certain medicines or less-invasive methods, like a myomectomy. This procedure helps remove the fibroids. Your uterus is left intact.
If other treatment options fail or the fibroids regrow to cause noticeable symptoms, you may need a laparoscopic hysterectomy.
- Cancer
Cancer is a common reason for a laparoscopic hysterectomy. This procedure may be recommended if you develop cancer of your endometrium, uterus, cervix, or ovary.
The treatment plan will be based on your overall health, the specific kind of cancer you have, and the stage of its progress. Other treatment options are radiation and chemotherapy.
If you also have precancerous conditions, surgery may be preferred. Besides, you can receive surgery on being tested positive for the BRCA gene to lower the risk of developing cancer later. Women with this gene are often prone to breast and ovarian cancers.
- Endometriosis
This condition causes the tissue lining your uterus to grow outside of it. The main symptoms are irregular periods and high pain. Endometriosis may also contribute to infertility.
Medical procedures to eliminate the endometrial tissue are tried besides hormone therapy. If these treatment options don’t work, a laparoscopic hysterectomy may be recommended.
- Abnormal menstrual bleeding
It can happen together with pain and stomach cramps. If you often undergo irregular or heavy bleeding during periods, a laparoscopic hysterectomy may help.
Irregular bleeding can be due to cancer, hormonal changes, infection, uterine fibroids, or other conditions.
Treatment methods like hormone therapy are generally tried first. If heavy bleeding doesn’t stop, your uterus may need removal as the only option.
- Uterine prolapse
It occurs when the uterus slips from its original place into your vagina. This condition happens more often in women who have given multiple vaginal childbirths. It may also impact women who have undergone menopause or are obese.
If you have uterine prolapse, common symptoms include bowel problems, urinary conditions, and pelvic pressure.
Treatment options usually depend on the severity of the condition. Specific devices and exercises can be employed at home for your treatment. Sometimes, a minimally invasive surgery can repair your weakened pelvic tissues. If these methods are not effective, a hysterectomy may be required.
If you develop the symptoms of any of the above conditions, consult your gynaecologist. Opt for laparoscopic hysterectomy, if recommended.
