Hysterectomy—removal of the uterus—is one of the most common surgical procedures in the U.S. Doctors perform more than 600,000 hysterectomies annually.
For many people, a hysterectomy relieves painful symptoms associated with conditions like fibroids or endometriosis. However, a hysterectomy is also performed to prevent pregnancies and eliminate menstrual cycles. And it is used to treat gender dysphoria—severe distress related to someone’s gender identity and their sex assigned at birth.
Emory Healthcare offers gender-affirming hysterectomy for people who are transgender and gender non-binary. It’s one of many gender-affirming treatment options offered through the Emory Transgender Clinic. Emory Healthcare OBGYN Elizabeth “Betsy” Collins, MD, says a hysterectomy for someone seeking gender-affirming care is no different than it is for a cisgender individual. A cisgender individual is someone whose gender identity corresponds with the sex registered at birth.
“Many people across all identities come to me seeking a hysterectomy,” Dr. Collins says. “By the time someone comes to me to talk about a hysterectomy, they have been thinking about it for a long time. It’s not something that they have decided suddenly. Often, they have been contemplating it for months if not years.”
What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgery that involves removing the uterus. Most people who undergo a hysterectomy keep one or both of their ovaries. This means they don’t experience hormonal changes following the procedure.
Dr. Collins performs most gender-affirming hysterectomies using minimally invasive techniques. During a minimally invasive hysterectomy, surgeons use smaller incisions and special tools to view and remove the uterus.
People without a uterus cannot carry a pregnancy, but they have options for building a family in the future.
Dr. Collins works with the Emory Reproductive Center to ensure everyone understands their fertility preservation options, like egg freezing, before undergoing gender-affirming hysterectomy. “Many people live long and happy lives without their uteruses,” Dr. Collins says. “And a uterus isn’t a requirement for becoming a parent or building a family. Still, we make sure everyone has the opportunity to discuss their fertility or family-building concerns.”
4 Things To Ask Your Doctor If You’re Considering a Gender-Affirming Hysterectomy
As with any surgery, you’ll want to be sure you understand everything you can about the procedure. Dr. Collins recommends asking your doctor the following questions:
- How will my gender-affirming hysterectomy be performed? Emory offers traditional open and minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomies. Most gender-affirming hysterectomy surgeries are performed using minimally invasive approaches.
- What is the recovery time after a hysterectomy? Two to four weeks after surgery, people who have had a minimally invasive hysterectomy can resume non-strenuous activities and work. Walking is an example of a non-strenuous activity. If you have a traditional open hysterectomy, you can expect a six- to eight-week recovery period.
- How much does a hysterectomy cost? Many private insurers offer coverage for gender-affirming hysterectomies.
- What are the risks of a hysterectomy? There are risks with any surgery. These include bleeding, infection or injury to areas near the surgical site.
Other Gender-Affirming Care Options at Emory Healthcare
In addition to gender-affirming hysterectomy, Dr. Collins offers general obstetrical, gynecological, sexual health and wellness care to people of all identities.
Tubal sterilization and intrauterine device (IUD) placement, is also offered. Both may be good options for people who have significant concerns about the possibility of becoming pregnant. Other providers with the Emory Transgender Clinic offer a range of gender-affirming care options, including:
- Dermatological care
- Fertility preservation
- Hormone therapy
- Plastic surgery
- Voice therapy
“Providing respectful care to everyone, regardless of their identity, is very important,” Dr. Collins says. “I listen to people and talk to them about their goals. Then, we work together to achieve those goals safely and within medical practice guidelines.”
To learn more about the Transgender Clinic or make an appointment, call 404-778-3280 or visit online.
Compassionate Care From Experts Who Listen to You
Whether you are looking for gynecological services, are planning to start a family or are seeking high-quality care that suits your lifestyle, trust the Gynecology & Obstetrics specialists at Emory Healthcare. Call 404-778-3401 or visit us online.
About Emory Healthcare
At Emory Healthcare, we’re here to help you find the care you need when you need it. As the most trusted health care brand in Georgia, we have more than 3,450 doctors and more than 500 locations including 11 hospitals, primary care offices and urgent care centers. When you choose Emory Healthcare, you have access to the benefits of an academic health system. By combining clinical care, education and research, our care team works to provide exceptional patient care, using emerging technologies, extensive resources and innovative therapies not available at traditional community hospitals.
