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Depending on the reasons for the hysterectomy, different parts of the reproductive system will be removed. The term "hysterectomy" is an umbrella term for all of these procedures, so it is important to understand which type of operation will be happening to you.  A supracervical or subtotal hysterectomy involves the removal of the upper part of the uterus only, while the cervix stays in place. A total hysterectomy involves the removal of the whole uterus and cervix. A radical hysterectomy involves the removal of the whole uterus, tissue on the sides of the uterus, the cervix, and the top part of the vagina. This is typically only done when cancer is present. Your hysterectomy may or may not involve removal of the ovaries (a procedure called "oophorectomy"). An open surgery, or abdominal hysterectomy, is the most common type, comprising 65% of procedures. This method involves a 5–7 inch abdominal incision, through which the appropriate organs are removed. An MIP hysterectomy (or minimally invasive procedure) may be vaginal (where an incision is made inside the vagina, through which the organs are removed — known as a transvaginal hysterectomy) or laparoscopic (which is a surgery done using a laparoscope, through one or more small tiny incisions, often through the belly button). Sometimes MIP hysterectomies will be a combination of vaginal/laparoscopic techniques.  An open surgery hysterectomy usually results in a three-day hospital stay. MIP hysterectomies generally involve reduced hospital stays, quicker recovery times, less scarring, and a lowered risk of infection. An MIP hysterectomy results in a three to four week recovery period to resume full activity, compared to a five to six week recovery with an abdominal procedure. Not all women will be suited for an MIP hysterectomy. Factors such as scar tissue, obesity, and health status can all affect whether or not an MIP is good choice for you. A hysterectomy is considered a "moderate risk" procedure. Fortunately, most women who have this surgery experience no complications; however, as with any medical procedure, some complications do occur for a small percentage of women. It is important to educate yourself on what could happen, even though the risk is small. Some complications include:  Urinary incontinence Vaginal prolapse Fistula formation Chronic pain Blood clots Infection Frequent urination Heavy bleeding (hemorrhage) Early menopause Complications due to general anesthesia The most common physical result of a hysterectomy is the early onset of menopause. If your ovaries will be removed during the procedure, you will experience the onset of menopause right away. If your ovaries will remain, you will still likely experience menopause at an earlier age than you would have otherwise. Additionally, after your hysterectomy, you will be advised to abstain from sexual activity or heavy lifting for a minimum of six weeks. On the bright side, after the recommended recovery period, most women report an immediate relief from reproductive pain, problems, and discomfort. Before your surgery, gather enough information to feel comfortable about the surgery. Generate a list of questions for your doctor, and talk to them until you feel all of your concerns have been answered. You may want to discuss any medications or hormone therapy you'll need, the effects of this surgery on your sex life, the best ways to accomplish a full recovery, and any other elements that you just aren't sure about or don't understand completely.
Figure out what type of hysterectomy you'll be having. Understand the differences between "open surgery"  and "MIP" hysterectomies. Learn about the risks associated with hysterectomy. Find out what to expect after your hysterectomy. Gather additional information.