What not to do after a hysterectomy?
What is a hysterectomy? Technically, hysterectomy means only the removal of the uterus. It does not refer to the removal of ovaries or fallopian tubes, which are sometimes removed at the same time. However, most women use the term vaguely, and many do not know exactly what was removed. You should be sure to ask your doctor to explain exactly what he is planning to remove and why. In cancer of the endometrium, the surgery usually includes removal of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Are most hysterectomies performed because cancer is present? No. Most hysterectomies are performed because of fibroids and hyperplasia . What is a fibroid tumor? A fibroid tumor is a noncancerous growth composed mostly of muscle and fibrous connective tissue. Fibrous tumors are most common among women who are over 35 years of age, and are not usually dangerous unless they grow very large. It is estimated that about 40 percent of women over 50 have fibroid tumors. Most fibroid tumors shri...