(HealthDay News) -- A hysterectomy may be recommended for cases of uterine fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic support problems, abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pelvic pain and gynecologic cancer, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says.
Hysterectomies can be done vaginally, abdominally or laparoscopically. Vaginal hysterectomies tend to cause the fewest complications, the college says.
The procedure does carry potential risks, the college adds, including:
- Fever and infection.
- Heavy bleeding during or after surgery.
- Injury to the urinary tract or nearby organs.
- Blood clots in the leg that can travel to the lungs.
- Breathing or heart problems related to anesthesia.
