Gynecology Operations in Monterey Peninsula & the Central Coast
During your regular visit, your gynecologist may inform you that you require
a surgical operation to treat your condition. You may be understandably
apprehensive about receiving surgery; however it’s helpful to understand
that millions of women every year receive GYN surgeries, and most operations
are minimally invasive and permit you to return home the same day. These
operations are designed to relieve pain, treat cancer and resolve abnormalities
in the pelvic region.
The gynecologists at Salinas Valley Health are attentive
and listen carefully to your needs. Your regular OB/GYN may not be capable
of performing your surgery, and if this is your first time working with
one of our doctors we assure you that you will be treated with the respect
and care you deserve.
Importance of Gynecological Surgery
When your OB/GYN recommends surgery, it is not something you should wait
on. They likely believe that you have a condition that will worsen over
time, or that they need to take a closer look inside to confirm or rule
out a cancer diagnosis. Learn more about GYN operations from the overview
below, and ask your doctor any questions that will help you feel more at ease.
Overview of common GYN surgeries and procedures:
Hysterectomy – This is a surgical procedure in which the doctor removes the uterus or
damaged parts within it. Hysterectomy is recommended when doctors find
fibroid tumors, abnormal uterine bleeding or cancer. There may be other
reasons for the operation, which you should discuss with your doctor.
Colposcopy – In this minimally invasive operation, the doctor inserts a small camera
(colposcope) into the uterus to get a clearer picture of the vaginal walls.
Doctors often recommend colposcopy when Pap smears show unusual results
and further testing is needed.
Dilation and curettage (D and C) – In this very common GYN procedure, the uterine lining is removed to be
tested for cancer and polyps. This procedure is also used to remove uterine
abnormalities like fibroid tumors and remnants of placenta after pregnancy.
Cervical cryosurgery (cryotherapy) – In most cases, your cervix is able to recover from abnormalities without
treatment. When this does not happen, cryotherapy may be recommended.
In this operation, the abnormalities are frozen and destroyed so that
they cannot develop into a serious condition like cancer.
For more information on GYN procedures, speak with your gynecologist. The
medical team at Salinas Valley Health is happy to
answer any of your questions as well.
