Hysterectomy in Charlotte, NC

It depends on whether your ovaries are removed. A hysterectomy removes the uterus and ends your periods, but it does not automatically cause menopause when the ovaries stay in place.

• Ovaries kept: they keep producing hormones, so you enter menopause naturally later on
• Ovaries removed: you enter surgical menopause right away, and symptoms may appear soon after

Dr. Stepp discusses whether keeping your ovaries is the right choice for your situation.

The difference is how much tissue is removed. Each type is chosen based on your diagnosis and goals.

• Partial (supracervical): removes the uterus but leaves the cervix in place
• Total: removes the uterus and cervix, and is the most common type
• Radical: removes the uterus, cervix, and nearby tissue, usually for cancer

Your surgeon recommends the least extensive option that fully treats your condition.

A hysterectomy is usually covered by insurance when it is medically necessary. Conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, prolapse, and abnormal bleeding often qualify.

Coverage still depends on your plan and documentation of your condition, so it helps to confirm the details with your insurer beforehand. Beck Aesthetic Surgery can also review financing for any costs that are not covered.

For most women, a hysterectomy does not harm their sex life, and many feel better once pain or heavy bleeding is gone. Removing the source of discomfort often makes intimacy more enjoyable.

If your ovaries are also removed, lower hormone levels can cause dryness or a dip in libido. Treatments such as vaginal rejuvenation or hormone therapy can help if that happens, so tell your surgeon about any concerns.

Yes, several alternatives may be worth exploring first, depending on your condition. A hysterectomy is often considered once other options have not brought relief.

Common alternatives include:

• Medication or a hormonal IUD for heavy bleeding
• Myomectomy to remove fibroids while keeping the uterus
• Endometrial ablation to treat abnormal bleeding

Dr. Stepp reviews all of your urogynecology options so you can make an informed decision.

No, pregnancy is not possible after a hysterectomy because the uterus is removed. This makes the procedure a permanent end to fertility.

For this reason, a hysterectomy is recommended only for women who have finished having children. If you may want to conceive in the future, your surgeon can discuss uterus-sparing alternatives with you first.

A hysterectomy itself does not directly cause weight gain. Any changes are usually tied to reduced activity during recovery or to hormone shifts if the ovaries are removed.

Staying active once you are cleared and eating well both help keep your weight steady. Most patients return to their normal routine and activity level within a couple of months.

Recovery time depends heavily on the surgical approach, and minimally invasive options usually heal faster than an abdominal procedure.

• Vaginal or laparoscopic: most patients resume light activity within two to four weeks
• Abdominal: recovery often takes six to eight weeks because of the larger incision

Dr. Kevin Stepp uses minimally invasive techniques whenever they are appropriate for your case, which can shorten your recovery and reduce scarring.

Preparation starts with a full consultation to review your health history and confirm the best surgical approach for you. Your surgeon will then give you personalized instructions to follow in the days beforehand.

Common steps include:

• Pausing blood thinners and certain supplements as directed
• Arranging a ride home and help for the first few days
• Preparing a comfortable recovery space with easy meals on hand

Following these steps closely supports a smoother surgery and an easier recovery.