Tina Paulson had to have surgery after dealing with painful bleeding and cramps, but the active mother of two couldn't afford to be sidelined for weeks. Thanks to a new hysterectomy procedure being offered at Avera St.Luke's in Aberdeen she didn't have to be.

"I was up and out in two days at home doing what i needed to do," she said.

By undergoing a Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy (LSH), women can retain their cervix while taking out the part of the uterus that causes painful bleeding. Leading medical journals contend, that unlike a traditional hysterectomy, it helps women maintain their sexual function.

"By removing the uterus and leaving the cervix intact, women wake up hardly being able to tell that they've had anything done to them. That means recovery is much quicker," said Dr. Christine Stehly of Avera St. Luke's Hospital. She and her partners with OB/GYN Associates of Aberdeen have seen great results.

"I wish i could have done it sooner, because my quality of life has changed. I don't suffer from bleeding or cramping anymore. Its been great," Paulson agreed.

Like Tina, its important to see your doctor as soon as you detect a change in your body.

"The most common reason for a hysterectomy--that is the removal of the uterus--is if you have uterus bleeding or if you're having pelvic pain," said Dr. Stehly.

However, not every woman is a candidate for this type of surgery. That's why you should discuss your options with your doctor. Some surgeons still prefer to perform the traditional hysterectomy procedure.