A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus that can relieve pain, heavy bleeding or other conditions that have not responded to other treatments. This care can help women with fibroids, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, or abnormal bleeding find long-term relief and improved quality of life — close to home for patients in Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bremen, Wedowee and surrounding communities accross west Georgia and east Alabama.

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus and sometimes other reproductive organs. There are several types of hysterectomy depending on the conditions being treated and your health goals: 

• A total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix
• A partial hysterectomy removes the uterus but leaves the cervix
• Radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix and sourrounding tissues and is typically used for some cancers
• Hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries may be recommended if there are ovarian conditions or a cancer risk

Do I need a hysterectomy?

You should talk with your women's health provider if you have symptoms that affect your daily life or health, including:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons
• Severe pelvic pain that does not improve with treatment
• Frequent pain during sex
• Chronic pelvic pain that lasts most of the month
• Large fibroids causing pressure or discomfort
• Persistent symptoms after other treatments, such as medications or procedures

If your asking, "How do I know if I need hysterectomy surgery?", these symptoms or ongoing health issues may be part of the discussion with your provider. Together, you can decide whether a hysterectomy is appropriate for your situation.

Is a hysterectomy safe?

Hysterectomy is generally safe and effective when recommended by a qualified provider. Your surgical team will evaluate your medical history, symptoms, imaging results and overall health to determine if this procedure is right for you.

As with any surgery, there are risks including bleeding, infection or complications related to anesthesia. Your care team will review these risks and how they apply to your individual health.

Minimally invasive hysterectomy options such as laparoscopic hysterectomy or robotic assisted hysterectomy often result in shorter recovery times, less pain and lower risk of complications compared with traditional open surgery.

A hysterectomy is not reversible and results in loss of fertility. If you want to preserve fertility, your provider may discuss alternate options or timing.

What are my treatment options?

Hysterectomy may be one part of a comprehensive plan. Your provider will help you consider all options before recommending surgery.

Nonsurgical and supportive care

• Medications to manage heavy bleeding and pain including horomonal medications 
• Uterine artery emoblization for fibroids 
• Endometrial ablation to reduce bleeding 
• Physical therapy and pain management for chronic pelvic pain

Surgical hysterectomy options

• Medications to manage heavy bleeding and pain including horomonal medications 
• Uterine artery embolization for fibroids 
• Endometrial ablation to reduce bleeding
• Physical therapy and pain management for chronic pelvic pain

Intraoperative options

Depending on your needs, your surgeon may also remove or preserve:

• Ovaries (oophorectomy)
• Fallopian tubes (salpingectomy)
• Pelvic lymph nodes if cancer is a concern

Who should I see?

If you think you may need a hysterectomy, start with your OB/GYN or women's health specialist. You should schedule a visit if:

• Symptoms have not improved with other treatments
• You are considering surgery for symptoms relief
• You want expert guidance on surgical and nonsurgical options
• You are trying to perserve fertility or understand long-term effects

Your provider may work with other specialists such as interventional radiologists or pain management teams, depending on your plan.

Why choose us

At Tanner Women's Care, we provide expert hysterectomy care close to home for patients across west Georgia and east Alabama. Our trusted OB/GYNs and women's health specialists offter: 

• Local care with surgery offered in Carrollton and Villa Rica hospitals
• Personalized treatment planning foucsed on your goals and health 
• Minimally invasive surgical options when appropriate 
• Whole-person care that includes physical, emotional and wellness support
• A patient-centered appraoch that respects your prefrences and needs 

Hysterectomy Surgery and Recovery Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recovery time after a hysterectomy?
Recovery varies by appraoch. Minimally invasive hysterectomy often allows return to normal activites within two to four weeks. An open abdominal hysterectomy may take six to eight weeks.

Will I still have periods after a hysterectomy?
No. Periods stop after a hysterectomy because the uterus is removed.

Can I have sex after a hysterectomy?
Yes. Most women resume sexual activity once clearned by their provider, typically about six to eight weeks after surgery.

Are there alternatives to hysterectomy?
Yes. Depending on your symptoms, there are uterine-sparing procedures such as uterine artery embolization or endomentrial ablation. Medical management without surgery may also be an option.

Will insurance cover a hysterectomy?
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary hysterectomy and related care. Coverage varies.

Can I preserve my fertility?
If fertility is a concern, talk with your provider. Alternative treatments or timing strategies may help preserve your ability to have children.