Gynecologic surgery.

Abstract

Benign gynecologic conditions, such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic organ prolapse, are highly prevalent and adversely affect quality of life (Marsh et al., 2018;Nnoaham et al., 2011;Pynnä et al., 2021). Cancers of the female reproductive tract are less common but are likely to have far-reaching effects on health and quality of life. Although nonsurgical treatments are, in some cases, able to reduce or prevent the need for surgery, surgery remains a mainstay in the treatment of both benign and malignant gynecologic conditions. Negative psychosocial outcomes occur in only a small proportion of patients who undergo elective procedures for benign disease. Nevertheless, this minority represents a large number of women, given the large overall number who are treated for gynecologic disease.In addition to the potential physical, social, emotional, and financial toll of surgery, gynecologic procedures are unique in that they specifically target reproductive organs. Surgery for gynecologic disorders may provide relief of pain and other bothersome symptoms, but it is potentially at the expense of other outcomes that reduce quality of life. Removal of reproductive organs may be associated with feelings of loss, especially in younger women and