Thinking about gynecologic surgery? 4 things every patient should consider By Sawsan As-Sanie, MD, MPH and Courtney Lim, MD

Many women consider undergoing gynecologic surgery for a variety of conditions such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, fibroids or endometriosis.  Historically, these surgeries were often done through large abdominal incisions requiring long hospitalizations and recovery time, increased scar tissue and increased risks of bleeding and infection.

In contrast, many women now have the option of having these procedures performed with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques.  MIS techniques are usually associated with less pain, quicker recovery, and lower risks of infection and bleeding.  These surgical methods include vaginal surgery, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy.

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Uterine-preserving and Fertility-preserving Alternatives to Hysterectomy When Treating Fibroids By Dr. William Parker

For women who wish to preserve their fertility or preserve their uterus regardless of fertility issues, hysterectomy should be a last resort.

When fertility preservation is the goal, it is important for the gynecologist to know the number, sizes and exact positions of the fibroids in order to guide the best treatment.   Fibroids that change the shape of the uterine cavity can decrease fertility and will be best detected using saline-infusion ultrasound, hysteroscopy (telescope looking into the uterine cavity) or MRI (most accurate).  ( READ MORE )