When it comes to women’s health treatments like gynecological surgeries, understanding all the available information is crucial in making the best decision for yourself or a loved one. By learning about the different surgical options available, you can prepare for surgery, as well as for recovery.
Knowing how surgical treatments affect the body and what recovery entails can also help alleviate the anxiety and stress of being a patient or a loved one of a patient.
Common Gynecological Procedures
Once your healthcare provider has diagnosed your condition, they may recommend non-invasive treatments to alleviate your symptoms. However, in some cases, surgery can be the most effective option to provide pain relief. Additionally, non-invasive surgical procedures can be used to confirm the initial diagnosis through diagnostic exams.
Here are some of the common gynecological procedures that you may be recommended for:
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is a minimally invasive procedure to check the cervix (lower part of the uterus) and the wall of the vagina for any abnormal tissues.
The OB-GYN will use a colposcope to check the vagina and cervix, then remove tissues from select areas if they see any abnormalities. This diagnostic test can potentially check cells at risk for cancer or are already cancerous. Patients are recommended for this procedure when their Pap smear or pelvic exam results are abnormal.
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a diagnostic procedure to view the abdominal and reproductive organs. A laparoscope is passed through a small incision in the abdomen, where your healthcare provider can look directly at the outside of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.
This procedure can determine the cause of pain in the pelvic area and confirm endometriosis, where the tissue present in the uterus lining grows outside of the uterus. It can also check whether there is a blockage in the fallopian tubes or for signs of infertility.
Endometrial Ablation
For individuals who experience heavy periods, endometrial ablation can be a surgical option they may be recommended for. This procedure is used to control or lessen the effects of a heavy period through the use of heat, cold, or different types of energy, such as radiowaves or electricity, to fully repair the uterus lining.
Endometrial ablation, while common, is not recommended for individuals with certain uterus conditions and other factors, so it’s best to consult with an OB-GYN near you to see if it’s suitable for your case.
Dilation and Curettage (D and C)
Dilation and curettage (D and C) is a minor surgical procedure where tissues in the uterus are removed after a miscarriage or abortion. It is also utilized for individuals who have unexplained bleeding in between periods.
The OB-GYN will dilate the cervix, then use a curette to scrape the uterine wall and remove the tissues present. The procedure itself takes five to ten minutes, but the preparation for the surgery may take longer.
Dilation and curettage is an outpatient procedure. After a period of observation, you can go home the same day of your operation.
Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy is the second most common gynecological procedure performed on women. This surgical procedure removes the uterus, and in a total hysterectomy, the cervix, as well. It is performed for a variety of reasons, such as but not limited to:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Uterine fibroids (noncancerous tumors)
- Increased pelvic pain
- Cervical or uterine cancer
- Cancer prevention
Recovery Tips After Gynecological Procedures
The amount of time you spend in the hospital or post-surgery observation depends on the procedure you have done. For diagnostic exams, such as colposcopy and laparoscopy, you will not be required to stay overnight and can resume daily activities pretty soon after surgery. You will be asked to go to a follow-up appointment to discuss the test results.
After a D and C or an endometrial ablation, you should ask a friend or loved one to drive home after your operation. You may experience light bleeding after the operation, so it is best to prepare pads (not tampons) for post-operative care.
After undergoing a hysterectomy, it may be necessary to spend a night in the hospital for additional observation during the post-surgical recovery period. You will also be encouraged to walk around as soon as possible to prevent blood clots.
However, it is important to remember that post-operative care is individualized. You should ask your healthcare provider for specific instructions to follow after your gynecological procedure.
OB-GYN and Women’s Healthcare Needs at New Jersey
It’s essential to talk to a trusted healthcare provider to understand which gynecological surgery is the best viable option for your condition. Understanding common gynecological surgery options can also empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
At Hudson MD Group, our quality healthcare services offer medical attention and support for patients of all ages in the New Jersey area, including women and female-assigned-at-birth individuals who may need gynecological surgery.
Our compassionate and expert primary and specialty healthcare services can diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. In particular, we also cater to women’s healthcare needs in our multi-disciplinary medical practice.
If you have questions about gynecological surgeries or would like to schedule an appointment, our friendly staff can assist you. We can be reached at (973) 705-4914. We look forward to serving you!
