Benefits of Keeping Cervix After Hysterectomy – A hysterectomy is a major surgery that can be life-changing for many women. It involves the removal of the uterus and, in some cases, the cervix. While there are some benefits to removing the cervix, there are also some advantages to keeping it. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy. We will look at the potential health risks associated with removing the cervix and the potential risks of leaving it in. We will also explore the potential benefits of keeping the cervix, including improved sexual satisfaction, improved bladder control, and improved longevity. Finally, we will look at the various options available to women who wish to retain their cervix after a hysterectomy. By the end of this post, readers will have a clearer understanding of the benefits of keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy and the different options available to them.
Benefits of Keeping Cervix After Hysterectomy
Keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy (also known as a “cervical preservation” or “supracervical” hysterectomy) has several potential benefits, including:
Reduced risk of pelvic floor dysfunction
One of the most important benefits of keeping the cervix after hysterectomy is reduced risk of pelvic floor dysfunction. Without a cervix, the uterus and other organs in the pelvic cavity, such as the bladder and rectum, can be put under increased strain, leading to a higher risk of pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, such as incontinence, and could result in a longer recovery time. Keeping the cervix intact after a hysterectomy has been shown to reduce the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction and provide greater support to the pelvic organs.
Reduced risk of urinary incontinence
After a hysterectomy, women who keep their cervix are at a reduced risk of developing urinary incontinence. Women who undergo a total hysterectomy, including removal of the cervix, are more likely to suffer from urinary incontinence due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. Keeping the cervix intact helps to maintain the strength and integrity of the pelvic floor muscles, thus reducing the chances of developing urinary incontinence.
Improved sexual function
Women who have chosen to keep their cervix after hysterectomy may also experience improved sexual function. This is because the cervix is a source of pleasurable sensations during sexual intercourse. It can also provide deeper penetration and better stimulation during sex, resulting in more intense orgasms. Keeping the cervix can also help to improve overall sexual satisfaction, as it can provide a sense of security and comfort for women who have undergone hysterectomy.
Reduced risk of uterine and ovarian cancer
The removal of the uterus and cervix can reduce a woman’s risk of developing certain types of gynecological cancers, including endometrial, uterine and ovarian cancer. Even though the uterus and cervix are removed, it is still possible for ovarian cancer to develop. Keeping the cervix has been shown to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by as much as 70%. Therefore, keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy may be an appropriate choice for some women.
Preservation of natural hormones
One of the major benefits of keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy is that it helps to preserve natural hormone production. By removing only the uterus and leaving the cervix and ovaries intact, the body is better able to maintain its regular hormone balance. This can help to reduce the risk of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, and can also help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Keeping the cervix can also help to maintain fertility.
May provide psychological benefits for some
Keeping the cervix during a hysterectomy may provide psychological benefits for some patients. For some women, the cervix is a symbolic part of femininity, and removing it can be psychologically traumatic. Keeping the cervix in place may help to alleviate the feeling of loss and provide a sense of psychological comfort. Additionally, maintaining the cervix may provide a sense of closure, helping the patient to feel that she is still a woman and her body is still intact.
Improved continence for some women
Keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy can have many potential benefits, including improved continence for some women. This is because the cervix helps support the pelvic floor muscles which are essential for bladder and bowel control. Retaining the cervix can help provide some women with greater support against involuntary leakage and help reduce the risk of incontinence. Additionally, keeping the cervix can potentially help preserve sexual functioning as the cervix is an important erogenous zone for some women.
Retention of a cervical cap, which may have benefits for cervical health
In some cases, a cervical cap may be kept in place after a hysterectomy. This can help maintain the integrity of the cervix and prevent the formation of scar tissue. In addition, the retention of a cervical cap can also provide better protection against cervical cancer and reduce the chances of pelvic organ prolapse. Furthermore, the presence of a cervical cap may also help to reduce the risk of cervical infections, including sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, when considering a hysterectomy, it is important to discuss with your doctor the potential benefits of retaining a cervical cap.
As we have seen, there are many benefits to keeping the cervix after a hysterectomy. It can help reduce the risks of long-term complications such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. It can also help maintain sexual satisfaction, reduce the amount of tissue removed, and lead to shorter recovery times. Ultimately, the decision to keep or remove the cervix is a personal one and should be discussed with your doctor.