Digital illustration representing the interconnectedness of pelvic health and surgical outcomes in hysterectomy.

Hysterectomy Risks: Is Your Pelvic Condition a Factor?

Samir D’Costa in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"New research reveals how pelvic diseases like endometriosis, fibroids, and menstrual disorders can significantly increase the risk of surgical site infections after hysterectomy."

Hysterectomies are a common procedure for women, second only to cesarean sections. While generally safe, surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a significant concern, complicating recovery and increasing healthcare costs. Understanding the factors that contribute to these infections is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Recent research published in The Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology sheds new light on the role of pelvic diseases in SSI risk following hysterectomy. The study, which analyzed data from over 125,000 women, reveals that certain conditions, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and menstrual disorders, can significantly increase the likelihood of developing an infection after surgery.

This article breaks down the key findings of this important study, offering valuable information for women considering hysterectomy and the healthcare professionals who care for them. By understanding the specific risks associated with different pelvic conditions, patients and doctors can work together to make informed decisions and optimize surgical outcomes.

Pelvic Disease: A Key Risk Factor for Infection After Hysterectomy

Digital illustration representing the interconnectedness of pelvic health and surgical outcomes in hysterectomy.

The study's primary objective was to quantify the relationship between benign pelvic diseases and the risk of surgical site infections after hysterectomy. Researchers analyzed data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, focusing on women who underwent hysterectomy between 2006 and 2015.

The results revealed a significant association between specific pelvic conditions and SSI risk. Women undergoing hysterectomy for endometriosis, uterine fibroids, menstrual disorders, and pelvic pain had a higher risk of developing an infection compared to those undergoing the procedure for genital prolapse. Specifically:

Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis had a 79% increased odds of SSI.
Uterine Fibroids: A 28% increased odds of SSI was observed in women undergoing hysterectomy for fibroids.
Menstrual Disorders: These conditions were associated with a 46% increase in SSI risk.
Pelvic Pain: Women undergoing hysterectomy for pelvic pain experienced a 75% increase in SSI risk.

These findings underscore the importance of considering a patient's specific pelvic condition when assessing their risk for SSI after hysterectomy. While factors like obesity, smoking, and diabetes are already known risk factors, this study highlights the independent role of pelvic disease in surgical outcomes.

Empowering Women Through Knowledge

This research provides valuable insights for women considering hysterectomy. By understanding the potential impact of their specific pelvic condition on surgical risk, patients can engage in more informed conversations with their doctors. This collaborative approach can lead to personalized strategies for minimizing infection risk and optimizing recovery, ultimately improving the overall experience and outcomes for women undergoing hysterectomy.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1016/j.jmig.2018.11.015, Alternate LINK

Title: Type Of Pelvic Disease As A Risk Factor For Surgical Site Infectionin Women Undergoing Hysterectomy

Subject: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Journal: Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Authors: Innie Chen, Abdul Jamil Choudhry, David Schramm, D. William Cameron, Victor Leung, Sukhbir S. Singh, Laura Hopkins, Kristina Arendas, Ranjeeta Mallick

Published: 2019-09-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is a surgical site infection after a hysterectomy and why is it a concern?

A surgical site infection (SSI) after a hysterectomy is an infection that occurs at or near the surgical incision after the procedure. This is a significant concern because it can complicate recovery and increase healthcare costs. Factors contributing to SSIs are important to understand in order to improve patient outcomes.

Which pelvic conditions are specifically linked to a higher risk of infection after a hysterectomy?

Endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and menstrual disorders can significantly increase the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) after a hysterectomy. Research indicates women undergoing hysterectomies for these conditions face a higher likelihood of developing an infection compared to those undergoing the procedure for other reasons like genital prolapse. For example, endometriosis was associated with a 79% increased odds of SSI.

How was the study conducted to determine the risks of infection after a hysterectomy?

The study analyzed data from over 125,000 women who underwent hysterectomies, focusing on those who developed surgical site infections (SSIs). The data came from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, covering hysterectomies performed between 2006 and 2015. Researchers looked for a relationship between pre-existing benign pelvic diseases and SSI risk.

Why is it important to know about the increased risks of infection related to pelvic conditions before a hysterectomy?

This information is important because it allows for a more informed and collaborative approach between patients and doctors. Knowing the specific risks associated with conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, menstrual disorders, and pelvic pain can lead to personalized strategies for minimizing infection risk and improving overall surgical outcomes after a hysterectomy. These strategies might include optimizing the patient's health before surgery or using specific surgical techniques.

What other information or topics are not covered that might be relevant to understanding infection risks after a hysterectomy?

While the study highlights the risks associated with specific pelvic conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and menstrual disorders, it does not delve into the specific mechanisms by which these conditions increase the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs). Further research could explore whether these conditions compromise the immune system, alter the local tissue environment, or affect healing processes. Also, the study mentions other known risk factors, such as obesity, smoking, and diabetes, but does not elaborate on how these factors interact with pelvic conditions to influence SSI risk.