Not Your Mother's Hysterectomy: A Transformation in Women's Health Care

Lynn Kowalski’s book “ Not Your Mother’s Hysterectomy” is a great resource for women seeking relief from pain and/or bleeding for many years but have been afraid to have surgery. With today’s best techniques, most women can have a gynecological procedure and be back on their feet the day after surgery and back to most normal activities in 2 – 3 weeks.One of the best pieces of advice by Dr Kowalski is to research your surgeon. As a gynecologist and surgeon myself, too often I see patients just accepting what their doctor tells them without asking questions. “A doctor trained at an institution well known for a particular procedure …may have a tendency to treat with that same familiar procedure” rather than offering a minimally invasive procedure. A surgeon may suggest the procedure they are most comfortable with, not necessarily the fix that’s best for the patient ( page 64 ). Sadly, women undergo open surgery when minimally invasive techniques could result in less pain and a quicker return to an active lifestyle.With the rapid increase in use of any new technology is a concern about ability and experience of surgeons. Hundreds of hours of training in robotic-assisted surgery is required to master these skills. Ask your doctor about experience and training in these advanced techniques as Dr Kowalski suggests.UPDATE: Since the writing of this book, the use of “power morcellation” which has a potential hazard to spread tumor cells is no longer used . Don’t let anyone tell you have to have a big incision for this reason.Surgeons now use “Contained tissue extraction techniques” which are safer, yet still allow minimally invasive approaches to most women. In addition, women can often have the needed surgery with robotic-assisted techniques and benefit from less pain and a return to full active living faster. For more about contained tissue extraction, see: [...]

"Not Your Mother's Hysterectomy" has something for everyone. As a practicing surgical Pathologist, the frank and honest insight into the Gynecologic surgeon's perspective is refreshing, informative and captivating! As a daughter, sister, mother and friend, who is often asked to "translate" medical information into layman's terms, I appreciate the down-to-earth, clear and concise narrative of this very complex topic. I would recommend this book to anyone who is considering a hysterectomy, and for anyone who has a loved one who is facing a hysterectomy. The descriptions of the patient's perspectives and concerns, combined with Dr. Kowalski's personal and professional experiences, make the topic accessible and educational all at the same time. Students of all ages, backgrounds and professional goals, can learn something worthwhile from this easy to read monograph!

I bought this in two formats by accident. It is an excellent and informative book. Having it both ways let me have a choice of where to read. I rad a lot of books on this topic. This is the best.

For any woman facing hysterectomy, Dr. Kowalski's book, Not Your Mother's Hysterectomy, will prove immensely helpful, regardless of the diagnosis and regardless of which surgical approach is chosen. Her writing style is clear and does not require a medical education to understand. Her profound respect and compassion for her patients comes through loud and clear. Although Dr. Kowalski makes a strong case for robotic surgery and was instrumental in bringing it to her practice, she provides a comprehensive and balanced description of the other approaches. She provides women with information invaluable in talking to their doctors and making the best choices for themselves.I recommend this book unreservedly.

If you are considering a hysterectomy, this book will provide a wealth of information. I just wish I had had all this information back when I was a young woman. There have been so many advancements for today's women! This book was written by my doctor.

This book was exactly what I needed to help me understand what I was facing with having a hysterectomy! Thank you Dr. Kowalski for writing this book and making it available to us!

For any woman who is told she needs a hysterectomy, this book will empower her to make the best choices for her body, for her life. It is written clearly and with heart!Miriam Goldstein

It's very encouraging to learn how the surgery can be done with smaller incisions and less down time. I found the glossary and list of resources helpful.