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Shedding Light on Hysterectomies in India

Published: 17th May, 2024

Context

The lack of comprehensive data on women-specific health issues, including hysterectomies, impedes policymaking and awareness efforts in India. A recent study delves into the prevalence and underlying reasons for hysterectomies among women aged 45 and above in India, shedding light on this crucial aspect of women's health.

Key-findings

  • The most common reasons for hysterectomies in India include heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids, and uterine prolapse.
  • It reveals regional disparities in hysterectomy prevalence, with southern and western India reporting higher rates.
  • Factors associated with a higher likelihood of undergoing hysterectomy: education level, socioeconomic status, and age at marriage.
    • Patriarchal norms and misconceptions contribute to the overuse of hysterectomies, with some women undergoing surgery unnecessarily.
    • Women from marginalized communities and those with multiple children are particularly vulnerable.

Issues associated with Hysterectomy

  • There has been found a correlation between hysterectomy and chronic diseases (cardiovascular events, cancers, depression, metabolic disorders, and dementia).
  • Hysterectomies are also associated with hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and bone disease.
  • Women who could have been offered alternative treatments are unnecessarily subjected to hysterectomies, posing significant risks to their health. Medical professionals stress the importance of exploring non-surgical treatments and ensuring informed decision-making among patients.

Fact Box: About Hysterectomies:

  • Hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, is a common procedure globally, often performed to alleviate symptoms of gynecological disorders like fibroids, uterovaginal prolapse, and ovarian cysts.
  • While it offers health benefits, it also carries long-term implications such as early menopause and increased risks of cardiovascular disease and urinary incontinence.

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