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Hysterectomy Specialist

Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin Mary Grace Bridges, MD Our Services Hysterectomy

Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin

Mary Grace Bridges, MD

Obstetrician & Gynecologist & Breast Surgery located in Odessa, TX

Hysterectomies are an extremely common surgery in the United States, with 500,000 women receiving one each year. At Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin, located in Odessa and Midland, Texas, women who need a hysterectomy can count on OB/GYN Mary Grace Bridges, MD, for expert care. Call either office to learn about your hysterectomy options or book an appointment online.

Hysterectomy Q & A

What is involved in a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes your uterus. The exact type of hysterectomy you receive depends on your condition. You may undergo a:

  • Total hysterectomy - removal of the whole uterus and your cervix
  • Partial hysterectomy - removal of the upper part of your uterus, but leaves your cervix in place
  • Radical hysterectomy - removal of the uterus, cervix, and some tissue from the upper vagina


In some cases, Dr. Bridges may suggest removing your fallopian tubes and ovaries during a hysterectomy.

Why would I need a hysterectomy?

If you have reproductive health issues that affect your uterus, Dr. Bridges uses conservative methods of treatment before recommending a hysterectomy. But in some cases, removal of the uterus is the best course of treatment.

Issues that might require a hysterectomy include:

  • Uterine fibroids
  • Endometriosis
  • Cancer
  • Uterine prolapse
  • Undiagnosed heavy menstrual bleeding


If you have symptoms that suggest any of these conditions, such as pelvic pain or irregular periods, make an appointment at Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin to receive treatment that can improve your quality of life.

What happens during a hysterectomy?

Whenever possible, Dr. Bridges recommends a minimally invasive approach to hysterectomy. Laparoscopy, which involves just a few tiny incisions in your abdomen or vagina and the use of tiny instruments and a camera, is the most common approach.

You receive sedation to sleep through your procedure and will need a family member or friend to drive you home afterward. In some cases, you may require an overnight stay. Dr. Bridges can help you understand what to expect prior to the procedure.

Once the incisions are made, a laparoscope – a thin tube with a camera and light affixed – is inserted to view your uterus. Dr. Bridges then removes the necessary organs and stitches the small incisions up.

Recovery following a laparoscopic hysterectomy is quicker than those performed with conventional open surgery. Dr. Bridges and her staff provide you with a thorough after-care plan that includes instructions about activity limitations.

If you have symptoms that suggest the need for a hysterectomy, call to schedule a consultation at Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin or use the online booking tool.