Gynecologic surgery is any surgical procedure involving the organs or structure of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, vulva, and fallopian tubes. A gynecologist may refer you for gynecologic surgery for many reasons, such as treatment for tumors of the female reproductive system, chronic pain in the pelvis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, abnormal bleeding, or a prolapsed uterus. Procedures such as colposcopy or hysteroscopy aim to diagnose health problems, while others, like tubal ligation, serve as permanent birth control. Discuss the benefits, risks, preparation, and aftercare of any procedure with your gynecologist.
10 Things Your Doctor May Not Tell You About HysterectomyMedically Reviewed by Kara Smythe, MD | January 31, 2024
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What are common gynecologic surgeries?
Gynecologic surgeries include hysteroscopy; different types of hysterectomies and oophorectomies; tubal ligation; dilatation and curettage; and the surgical removal of ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, endometriosis tissue, and polyps.
What are the risks of gynecologic surgery?
The risks of gynecologic surgery vary depending on the procedure. However, the general risks of surgery apply to these procedures, including infections, excessive bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Ask your gynecologist about the specific risks of any upcoming procedures.
How long is recovery after a hysterectomy?
Generally, you may feel pain for a few days after a hysterectomy, but pain relief medications can help. Try to avoid lifting objects that weigh over 20 pounds for around six weeks and putting anything inside your vagina for eight weeks.
What is a laparoscopy?
A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses small incisions and a camera to diagnose or treat conditions. Laparoscopy may help a doctor identify endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids, ectopic pregnancy, tumors, or scar tissue.
When is a biopsy performed?
A gynecologist would perform a biopsy to diagnose abnormal tissue or cells in the reproductive organs. For example, they may collect tissue during a hysteroscopy or colposcopy and send them to test for cancerous cells.
Meet Our Experts In Gynecologic Surgery & Procedures
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Kara Smythe, MD
Medical Reviewer
Kara Smythe, MD, has been working in sexual and reproductive health for over 10 years. Dr. Smythe is a board-certified fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecolog...
Kacy Church, MD, practices as a clinical endocrinologist with the Palo Alto Medical Foundation in Burlingame, California. She balances both outpatient and inpatient responsibilitie...
John Paul McHugh, MD, is an obstetrician-gynecologist and lifestyle medicine specialist in southern California. He has always placed wellness at the center of his work, in both del...
Ryland Gore, MD, MPH, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon specializing in breast surgical oncology in Atlanta. She completed her general surgery residency at Rush Univ...
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