Of all the hot topics in the area of women's health, hysterectomy is certainly one of the most controversial. To stir things up even more, a new survey suggests that the majority of hysterectomies may not be necessary. A full two-thirds of these women are unaware of alternatives to hysterectomy for treating excessive menstrual bleeding, one of several benign uterine conditions for which the procedure is recommended. In many situations involving heavy bleeding, or menorrhagia, a common problem, hysterectomy seems like overkill. The condition, which affects one in five women, is often the result of benign causes, such as hormonal changes, ovarian cysts, polyps or fibroids, that are treatable by less invasive measures.
Women feel they have been shortchanged in terms of information and education.
But if it is indicative of a problem, then an evaluation of what is causing it and then the appropriate treatment will usually resolve the bleeding. The problem is busy doctors, coupled with a lack of knowledge about alternatives to hysterectomies. Women too often do not ask questions about less invasive treatments or are scared into the surgery by surgeons. But medical experts say there are still some cases that warrant hysterectomies, and those should not be overlooked, even in light of the survey findings. Coffey goes further to say that 98 percent of all hysterectomies performed are unwarranted.