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Step 1
Understand that "hysterectomy" is defined as the removal of the uterus and sometimes the cervix. It is NOT the removal of the ovaries, although some doctors use the phrase "complete hysterectomy" when planning ovarian removal. The actual term for removal of ovaries is "oophorectomy."
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Step 2
Know that there are alternatives to hysterectomy: myomectomy or removal of fibroids and endometrial ablation or the removal of the uterine lining. Each case is different but these are options that spare the uterus, although they may also prevent conception or the ability to carry a fetus.
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Step 3
Realize that you don't have to have your ovaries removed along with your uterus. Now, doctors are leaving the ovaries of even post-menopausal women because they can continue to produce small amounts of estrogen.
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Step 4
Remember that there is a difference between normal, gradual menopause and the instant menopause that occurs when ovaries are removed.
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Step 5
Check into laparoscopic hysterectomy. This is a procedure that requires five to eight tiny abdominal incisions. A camera goes into one, instruments into others. The uterus is cut up and removed through another. This procedure can spare the cervix in a sugery known as supracervical laparoscopic hysterectomy.
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Step 6
Consider vaginal hysterectomy. Except in cases where there are huge fibroids, the uterus can be removed vaginally with no incision to the abdomen. The cervix must be removed in this procedure.
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Step 7
Know the difference in recovery times. In general, it takes six weeks to recover from a hysterectomy in which the uterus is removed through one large abdominal incision. Vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomy recover periods are half as long.
