A non-descent vaginal hysterectomy (NDVH) is a type of vaginal hysterectomy that can be performed in the case of a non-prolapsed uterus. Since the surgeon removes the uterus through the natural orifice/ opening (vagina) in the body, it does not leave any visible scars.

Why it's done

• Uterine Fibroids Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterine wall. The fibroid tumors may grow very large and put pressure on other pelvic organs. Women who have uterine fibroids may experience heavy bleeding or severe pelvic pain in some cases.
• Gynecological Cancer A hysterectomy may be the best course of treatment in some cases of gynecological cancer or precancer. This includes uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and cancer of the uterine lining. Other treatments for these conditions include radiation and chemotherapy and your doctor will determine which is best for you based on how advanced the disease is.
• OUterine Prolapse Uterine prolapse is a condition in which the uterus is displaced and slips into the vagina. Prolapse is often found in women who have given birth multiple times and can also be a problem for obese women and postmenopausal women. The condition can cause urinary and bowel issues as well as pelvic pain or pressure.
• Abnormal Bleeding Heavy or prolonged bleeding caused by infection, cancer, hormone imbalance, or fibroids can be potentially dangerous. When other treatment options fail, a hysterectomy may be suggested.
• Endometriosis Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus (in the pelvic cavity, on ovaries and fallopian tubes, and the outer surface of the uterus). The tissue growth causes bleeding between menstrual periods and pain that can get very intense and interfere with daily life. This chronic condition does not have a cure and in severe cases, a hysterectomy may be recommended.
• Endometrial Hyperplasia Endometrial hyperplasia refers to the over-thickening of the uterine lining. It is often caused by the presence of estrogen without progesterone for prolonged periods of time, which can happen during times when hormone levels are changing, like during perimenopause.
• Adenomyosis Adenomyosis is a condition similar to endometriosis in that it involves the growth of uterine lining where it should not grow. However, unlike endometriosis, the tissue grows inside the walls of the uterus where it does not belong which can cause bleeding and pain.
• Severe Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a bacterial infection in the pelvic cavity that can cause severe pelvic pain. When caught early, PID can be treated with antibiotics. However, if the infection is left untreated and spreads, it can damage the uterus.

Surgery Procedure

The procedure is normally done under a general anaesthesia, but several anaesthetic procedures might be used. The procedure normally takes 45 minutes. Your vagina will be examined by your gynaecologist. They will make a cut at the top of your vaginal wall around your cervix to remove your womb and cervix. To prevent the chance of recurrent prolapse, they will usually sew the support ligaments of your womb to the top of your vagina and may implant a pack (similar to a large tampon) in your vagina.

Risk and complications

A hysterectomy is regarded as a relatively risk-free treatment. However, as with any major surgery, there are hazards involved. An allergic reaction to the anaesthesia is possible in certain people. There's also a chance of a lot of bleeding and infection near the incision. Other risks include injury to surrounding tissues or organs, including the: bladder intestines blood vessels