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. That's why it has become a controversial issue.
Women feel they have been shortchanged in terms of information and education.
Now they're saying that too many hysterectomies are performed, and I think that is true. Parker says that, especially in today's managed-care world, doctors do not always have the time to spend with patients to talk with them about their options. Moreover, Parker says that some physicians may themselves be unaware of the alternatives or trained to perform them. Another part of the problem, Coffey says, is that hysterectomy is often given as a first and only choice and not the last option.