Many Reasons to Choose Hysterectomy

Re: “Removal of Uterus Still Common” (March 18): Let’s say you are a woman past your childbearing years and your uterus is causing you more problems than it is worth.

You may be experiencing pain, dysfunctional bleeding or have a uterine prolapse (probably because of a vaginal delivery).

You are missing days at work and quality time with your family.

A sex life is a remote memory.

I would expect many women would logically choose a hysterectomy, and with good reason.

Is a woman not thinking clearly because she wants to end the problems with one definitive procedure?

Would you really expect most women to elect partial alternative measures that may lead to repeat procedures, an endless series of doctor visits or a life of dependence on medication?

Hysterectomy allows the physician to explore the pelvic cavity, remove the appendix (no one seems to miss that organ) and fix urinary incontinence (despite the ads on TV, most women do not like to wear diapers). As to whether these hysterectomies are a “necessity,” only the patient can decide what is a necessity for her.

Believe it or not, I am not advocating hysterectomy. Options are a good thing.

I am, however, advocating against people who question hysterectomy as a logical choice.

NANCY THEROUX

Tarzana