Gynecologic Surgery

What is gynecologic surgery?

Gynecologic surgery is a surgical procedure that focuses on the organs and structure of the female pelvic region. Patients who are undergoing gynecologic surgery may need to have a procedure that addresses issues or concerns with the:

  • Uterus
  • Ovaries
  • Cervix
  • Fallopian tubes
  • Vagina
  • Vulva

Gynecological procedures and surgeries are common, but may feel overwhelming if it is your first experience with exploring one. It is best to speak with a qualified healthcare professional about why you may need gynecologic surgery.

Who needs gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

There are many reasons why a woman — or a woman who is assigned female at birth (AFAB) — might need to explore her gynecologic surgery options. Surgical treatments may be required for an optimal outcome in treating certain conditions, such as:

  • Endometriosis
  • Fibroids (benign tumors)
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Cancer
  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Uterine prolapse
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Abnormal bleeding

Some patients may also consult with a healthcare provider about using gynecologic surgery as a method of permanent birth control. It is important to discuss what may be the best option with a specific patient’s medical history in mind.

What are the different types of gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

A gynecologist will discuss gynecologic treatment options before settling on a specific type of procedure for a patient. Gynecologists strive to offer their patients the most minimally invasive options. Common gynecological procedures are:

  • Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH). Four small abdominal incisions allow for the removal of the uterus and cervix. A surgeon may also decide to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes for certain patients.
  • Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy (LSH). The surgeon removes the uterus laparoscopically but the cervix remains. Some patients keep ovaries while others have them removed at the same time.
  • Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH). LAVH is an option that guides the removal of the uterus and/or the fallopian tubes and ovaries through the vagina.
  • Laparoscopic Myomectomy for Fibroids. A procedure where the surgeon removes noncancerous tumors in the muscle of the uterus from the uterine wall.
  • Hysteroscopic Myomectomy. The doctor will view the fibroid by inserting a thin, lighted viewing instrument. It is inserted through the vagina and the cervix in order to access the uterus and remove the fibroid.
  • Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy. Small incisions allow for the removal of a cyst or multiple cysts from either or both of the patient’s ovaries.
  • Laparoscopic Lysis of Adhesions. A doctor treats abdominal and chronic pelvic pain caused by adhesions. Adhesions are internal scars that can be a result of gynecologic surgery.
  • Hysteroscopic Polypectomy. The surgery helps to preserve the uterus by removing any uterine polyps.
  • Hysteroscopic Endometrial Ablation. The procedure destroys the uterine lining in order to help treat abnormal uterine bleeding.
  • Robotic-Assisted Surgery. This type of surgery treats: pelvic organ prolapse, fibroids, and gynecological cancers in approved patients.

 

There are many types of gynecologic surgery, which may feel overwhelming or even frightening. Get in touch with a doctor as soon as possible to discuss what treatment option is best for you.

What is the aftercare for gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

Taking care of yourself after gynecologic surgery is different for everyone. The type of procedure and how your body responds to it will dictate your next steps. Speak to your healthcare provider about what to expect. Keep an eye out for:

  • Bleeding or unusual/smelly fluid coming from the vagina
  • Soaking through a pad in under an hour

 

There are certain do’s and don’ts after any gynecologic surgery. After surgery, do not:

  • Have sex
  • Use a douche
  • Wear tampons
  • Take a bath
  • Swim or sit in a hot tub

 

Prevent infections by waiting until your doctor says that it is safe to do any of these things.

Some patients may find that their perineal (the area between your vagina and anus) is sore if a procedure was done in that area. Cold packs can help with pain and swelling. Rinsing the area with a squirt bottle of warm water will help to keep the area clean and avoid infections. Speak directly with your doctor to ensure the proper and safe application of these aftercare methods.

Pain medication may also be a post-surgical option following gynecologic surgery. You will most likely feel some type of pain or discomfort. It can be managed safely with medical guidance.

What are the risk factors associated with gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

There are risk factors associated with all surgical procedures. The risk of complications will ultimately depend on the specific procedure, your overall health, and the doctor’s approach when performing the surgery. Risks may include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Organ damage
  • Blood clots
  • Anesthetic complications
  • Pelvic adhesions

 

It is understandable if these risks worry you. The best way to prepare for gynecologic surgery is to discuss concerns that you may have with your doctor. Your doctor may decide that there is an alternate treatment plan that makes sense for you.

Who is not eligible for gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

A doctor who knows your medical history and specific risk factors will be able to tell you if you are eligible for certain gynecologic procedures. A healthcare provider may be reluctant to see you undergo gynecologic surgery if you have a benign condition that can be treated by using less invasive methods.

What are the alternatives to gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

Although a hysterectomy is not the only gynecologic surgery option, it is among the most common surgeries for women in the United States. If your doctor decides that invasive or minimally invasive procedures are not right for you, they may suggest:

  • Non-hormonal therapy (lifestyle change, iron, etc.)
  • Hormonal management of bleeding (estrogen, different forms of progesterone, etc.)

 

It is always good to get more than one opinion from medical professionals. Speak with a doctor as soon as possible about your options and what treatment method might be safest for you.

What is the outlook for people who get gynecologic surgery?

Back to top

The outlook for gynecologic surgery is largely positive. Technology and techniques constantly evolve and improve patient outcomes. Surgeons who lean into the robotic-assisted approach may do so to provide patients with faster recovery periods and less postoperative pain.

Categories

Archives