 Keep Cervix? Hysterectomy Planning |
From the Pre-Op Hysterectomy Articles List |
 Related Titles
I love Da Vinci!! Everything but my cervix 4-23-10
SAH kept ovaries & cervix 10/21/09
Total Abdominal Hysterectomy, both ovaries and cervix
TAH/BSO - retained partial cervix
Keep Ovaries? Planning Hysterectomy
HysterSisters Articles
Options to Hysterectomy
Pre-Op Hysterectomy
Post-Op Hysterectomy
Hormone and Menopause
Intimacy after Hysterectomy
Pelvic Floor
Fitness after Hysterectomy
GYN Cancer
Grief and Loss
Endometriosis
Uterine Fibroids
Hysterectomy Stories
Ask A Doctor
I've been reading about the possible option of keeping my cervix when I have my hysterectomy. Why keep it?
This can be a difficult question to answer as each woman is unique in her needs and her medical history.
By definition, the cervix is part of the uterus. Removing the top of the uterus and leaving the cervix (the lower part of the uterus) may be an option to some women. This is then called a Partial, Supracervical or Subtotal Hysterectomy.
This option is definitely a topic that must be discussed with your surgeon who knows your medical history.
If your cervix is healthy and you have no history of bad pap smears, you are most likely a candidate for keeping your cervix.
Some believe that the cervix helps to provide pelvic floor support for the bladder (incontinence) and lower abdominal area with the hope of relieving possible vaginal prolapse issues.
Some also believe that retaining the cervix helps with sexual health by keeping nerve endings in the cervix and lower uterus that may be the involved with orgasmic responses. Some women like the feeling of bumping when the cervix is left.
Pap smears are still necessary after your hysterectomy along with your regular gyne checkups.
On the downside, some HysterSisters who keep their cervix report possible mini-periods from the endometrium (uterine lining) still attached to the cervix even if the surgeon cauterized it during surgery. Mini-period can mean anything from slightly discolored spotting to light bleeding. Ovaries or cyclic hormones must be present to cause the small amount of endometrium to cycle and bleed. The majority of women don’t have mini-periods. If you have your ovaries removed and are using estrogen replacement you may want to consider using some progesterone to avoid endometrium proliferation.
Also on the negative side is the possibility that the cervix will have to be removed in another surgery. HysterSisters.com reports more than one woman who retained her cervix only to develop cervical cancer after her surgery. A history of bad paps or HPV is a good reason to not keep your cervix.
Retaining your cervix helps with an easier, quicker recovery because there is no vaginal cuff (stitched-closed top of the vagina) to heal. The cervix leaves a more natural closure to the vagina. Years ago, before antibiotics, the cervix was routinely retained as a natural closure to the outside. The risk for post-op infection may be reduced.
Deciding to have a hysterectomy can be a difficult question by itself. It is important to explore all your options (Keep ovaries? Keep cervix? Abdominal surgery? Laparoscopic surgery? Vaginal surgery? Robot assisted surgery?) Talk over all your concerns with your surgeon, consider a second opinion and do the best you can with the information you have and recommendations of your physician.
This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.
Related Titles
I love Da Vinci!! Everything but my cervix 4-23-10
SAH kept ovaries & cervix 10/21/09
Total Abdominal Hysterectomy, both ovaries and cervix
TAH/BSO - retained partial cervix
Keep Ovaries? Planning Hysterectomy
Recommended for Hysterectomy Recovery
The HysterSisters Store has gathered products made specifically for your recovery from surgery. Here are the best sellers we can recommend to help you:
- The Great Binder Set - We have made it very easy for you and combined the two best binders and the Silky Sac into a great set to save you money! Our favorite is the Perfect Pocket binder with cold/hot packs!
- Deluxe Hyst Prep Set - As you plan, we've gathered the best products into one set for special pricing.
- Post-Op Panty - These great panties speed recovery, and reduces scarring. They contain a medical-grade silicone panel over incision to reduce scar's apperance while they provide support to weakened muscles and tissues from surgery. Excellent!
- Softest Bra Ever - When you want to wear something, but feel nothing. This is the softest bra ever, in microfiber with no hardware or tags to chafe or dig! The comfort-ribbed underband stays in place gently, so it is perfect for sleeping and lounging.
- HysterSisters Accessory Kit - Are you a HysterSisters fan? This set has a fun collection of HysterSisters items.
- Very Private Moisture - Once your doctor gives you the green light for intimacy, this is the stuff! This is a best selling product with a high rate of permanent, satisfied, repeat customers! Relieves vaginal dryness instantly, protects tissue & enhances intimacy.
"Buy it for the problem, use it for the pleasure."
|
|
|
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
|
Store »
Hysterectomy Checkpoints
Hysterectomy News May 22,2013
