Although the terms are often used interchangeably, a complete hysterectomy is a very different procedure from a total hysterectomy. During a complete hysterectomy, the fallopian tubes, cervix, uterus, and ovaries become detached. With a total hysterectomy, only the cervix and uterus are removed. Make sure you understand this drastic difference when talking to your doctor.
Typically, a complete hysterectomy is only necessary in dramatic situations such as cancer of the ovary or cervix. Another possible reason can be chronic endometriosis or ovarian fibroid tumors. It is important to understand that a complete hysterectomy has the side effect of menopause starting immediately and the symptoms are very difficult to treat.
It is important to discuss all options with your doctor, as a woman who has a complete hysterectomy may decide what treatment to use after surgery before her surgery.
Obviously, a hysterectomy will completely terminate a woman’s ability to have children, and symptoms associated with menopause such as night sweats, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, decreased sexual response, and night sweats will occur. . There is also the fact that you are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis and there is a possibility that severe depression could occur. These symptoms can appear very quickly and women must be well informed and prepared to deal with them.
As risky as it may sound, it’s always best to listen to what your doctor recommends. Not all women have the same side effects and there are many treatments that can significantly reduce the negative effects. Hormone replacement therapy should also be considered, but it should be considered as it has recently undergone extensive review. There are also natural “alternative” therapies that include herbs, exercise, vitamins, and nutrition.
A complete hysterectomy is sure to be life changing. If the treatment conditions are not life threatening, it is advisable to seriously consider all options. However, there are also many success stories of women who wished they had had their hysterectomy years earlier because of all the pain and discomfort they had to face.