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Hysterectomy Specialist

Capital Women's Care Our Services Hysterectomy

Capital Women's Care

Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Montgomery, Bethesda, MD

If you’re suffering from heavy, painful menstruation that hasn’t responded to other treatments, you may need a hysterectomy, but don’t panic. It’s not as frightening as it was for your mother. At Capital Women’s Care - Bethesda, the team of highly trained surgeons, including Dr. John Gschwend, Dr. Deena Kleinerman, Dr. Rachael Cleberg, Dr. Kirsten Beeson, and Morgan Wilkerson, PA-C can explain the procedure, why you need it, and what you should expect. If you live in or near Bethesda, Maryland and haven't found the relief you need, call the office today to schedule your consultation with the specialists in minimally invasive gynecological surgeries.

Hysterectomy Q & A

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a woman’s uterus, where a fetus develops and grows during pregnancy. During the procedure, your surgeon may also remove your fallopian tubes and ovaries, depending on your condition. After your surgery, you no longer have periods, and you can’t become pregnant.


Who needs a hysterectomy?

Each year in the United States, an estimated 500,000 women get hysterectomies. Although there are many reasons for a hysterectomy, the most common include problems with how the uterus functions. Your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy if you have:

  • Uterine fibroids: non-cancerous growths on the uterine wall
  • Uterine prolapse:  when the uterus slips into the vagina
  • Endometriosis:  when uterine tissue grows outside of your uterus
  • Adenomyosis: where uterine tissue grows into the muscle of the uterus
  • Cancer or precancer:  of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, or uterine lining

If you have heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding that doesn’t respond to other treatments, your doctor may suggest a hysterectomy.


Are there different types of hysterectomies?

Your OB/GYN may recommend a specific type of hysterectomy. At Capital Women’s Care - Bethesda, the team always opts for the least invasive procedure possible.

Your gynecological surgeon may recommend:

  • Abdominal hysterectomy: a traditional approach where an incision is made on your abdomen and the reproductive organs are removed
  • Laparoscopic hysterectomy: the uterus is removed through small (about 0.5 inches) incisions on the abdomen
  • Vaginal hysterectomy: where the uterus is removed without an incision, through the vagina (when you have already had children, and your cervix has dilated and effaced before)


How long does it take to recover from a hysterectomy?

Regardless of the type of hysterectomy you have, it’s a major procedure and recovery takes time. Abdominal hysterectomies take 4-6 weeks, while vaginal and laparoscopic take 3-4 weeks for you to be back at 100%.

Expect to have a few days post-op in the hospital. As soon as you’re able, you should get up and move around to stimulate healing. You may have a catheter -- a small tube that enters your bladder -- to help you urinate.

Once you’re home, get plenty of rest and avoid lifting heavy objects. You may need to avoid soaking in water or engaging in sexual intercourse for a few weeks.

If you think you might need a hysterectomy, call Capital Women’s Care - Bethesda or go online today to schedule your appointment with the specialists in minimally invasive gynecological surgeries.

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