PCOS affects between 8% and 13% of women who are of reproductive age. However, it’s believed that up to 70% of women can be living with PCOS undiagnosed.
PCOS is a hormone disorder that causes enlarged ovaries as well as small cysts on the ovaries. This is a disorder that isn’t understood very well at this time, but there is a lot of research currently happening to try to understand PCOS.
Those who have the disorder are always looking for viable options to treat the symptoms and the disorder itself. Many people wonder if a hysterectomy for PCOS is a viable option. Find out more here.
What Is PCOS?
First, let’s discuss what PCOS is. Polycystic ovary syndrome causes problems with hormones, resulting in a variety of symptoms. Some women may have irregular periods that last too long or go without periods for extended times.
Other PCOS symptoms include fluid-filled cysts on the outer edges of the ovaries. These can hold immature eggs and prevent the ovaries from functioning properly.
PCOS can cause complications such as infertility, miscarriage, or premature birth. Some are also at risk of gestational or type 2 diabetes, as well as pregnancy-induced high blood pressure.
Liver inflammation caused by fat build-up is possible. As is uterine-lining cancer, referred to as endometrial cancer.
What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is the term to surgically remove the uterus and cervix. There are total and partial hysterectomies, which remove either the entire uterus and cervix or only the uterus, respectively.
Many women – about half a million a year-receive hysterectomies for a variety of reasons. Removing the uterus stops the ability to menstruate as well as the ability to get pregnant.
Some women remove their uterus as a form of treatment for medical conditions. Others may remove it to prevent having children. Others may wonder about the connection between a hysterectomy and PCOS.
Is a Hysterectomy for PCOS a Viable Option?
PCOS is a hormone condition that can cause issues with the ovaries and their functions. Because of this, many wonder can a hysterectomy cure PCOS?
Unfortunately, a hysterectomy is not a treatment for PCOS treatment. A hysterectomy may take care of difficult or irregular periods and lower the risk of some cancers. However, it won’t cure PCOS entirely.
This is because a hysterectomy won’t solve the hormonal imbalances of PCOS. There is also a risk of early menopause, reduced sexual function, and pelvic floor issues.
Comorbidities, like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes, can worsen, or risks can increase. So, while you can treat some PCOS symptoms, not all will be solved by a hysterectomy, and it certainly won’t cure the disorder.
Managing PCOS
PCOS can be a tricky disorder to deal with. Many women have difficulty getting diagnosed with PCOS in the first place. The symptoms can also be difficult to manage and treat.
Since the disorder affects the ovaries, many may consider a hysterectomy for PCOS. However, a hysterectomy only solves some of the issues caused by PCOS and may cause others to arise.
Women with and without PCOS need comprehensive care from someone who understands. Women’s Health Associates provides healthcare for women by women. Contact us to book your appointment today!
