"The wrong lifestyle," informs Dr. Kania. "Lack of access to medical care, a low awareness and neglect of reproductive healthcare leads to severe uterus dysfunctions and hysterectomies," informs Dr. Kania.

A hysterectomy is avoidable. There are non-surgical alternatives available for problems of uterus.

Although in some cases it may be the best option available.

The Last Option

Why is hysterectomy the last option?

A hysterectomy ends your menses and your ability to get pregnant. So unless, you are sure that you don't want kids, it isn't advisable.

The onset of menopause is earlier than usual.

If the ovaries are removed through hysterectomy, it can lead to a fall in the blood estrogen level which in turn removes the protective covering of the estrogen from your cardiovascular and skeletal system.

There is an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures.

There is also a loss of support for bladder and bowel movements, which could cause incontinence.

When is It Advisable?

Here are some severe conditions that affect the uterus and may require this surgery.

Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common non-cancerous tumours in women of childbearing age.

As such the causes of fibroids are not known. Doctors consider being overweight a factor leading to it. This is because overweight women tend to have higher levels of oestrogen, which seems to influence the growth of fibroids.

As an alternative, hormonal medications are prescribed to shrink uterine fibroids. Uterine artery embolisation is another non-surgical option, wherein the uterine artery, which supplies blood to the fibroids is blocked thereby shrinking it.

If left untreated, the fibroids grow in size and the only option left is a hysterectomy.

Endometriosis

The tissues that act like the lining of the uterus grow outside of the uterus in other areas. This is known as endometriosis and pain is a common symptom.

Again, its exact reasons are not known, doctors consider genetics to play an important role in it.

Oral contraceptives can be used to treat endometriosis. Since preventing ovulation can reduce the discomfort associated with it. Another non surgical method is to shrink it with hormonal therapy.

However, if the medications don't work, surgery is the only option left to go.

Doctors suggest regular exercising and reducing caffeine intake to reduce the chances of getting endometriosis.

Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse is a condition where the uterus drops downward into the pelvis.

Pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, chronic coughs or heavy lifting are some of the factors that lead to uterine prolapse.

In a non-severe form, where the uterus has dropped only slightly, it can be corrected with Kegel exercise.

However, in its most severe form, where the uterus protrudes from the vaginal opening, a hysterectomy is the only option.

Losing weight and quitting smoking can also help relieve the pressure on the uterus.

Cervical and Uterine Cancer

These forms of cancer could be a result of improper lifestyle such as unsafe sexual practices, chain smoking and a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables.

Also, if you are on hormonal medications or have any immune system-related problems, it could trigger off the problem.

Prevention is best in this case. So get an annual pap test done, avoid regular douching.

Don't neglect conditions such as chronic constipation, obesity, diabetes and high BP.

In its initial stage, cervical and uterine cancer can be treated through radiation and chemotherapy. However, in severe cases, a hysterectomy may be advised, along with the radiation therapy.