What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove the uterus (womb). Sometimes the cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are also removed, depending on the reason for surgery.
After a hysterectomy, you will no longer have periods and cannot become pregnant.
If both ovaries are removed, menopause will occur right away.
Why Is a Hysterectomy Done?
Your doctor may recommend hysterectomy if you have:
- Uterine fibroids causing heavy bleeding or pain
- Endometriosis that does not improve with other treatments
- Uterine prolapse (when the uterus slips down into the vagina)
- Cancer of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries
- Severe or persistent vaginal bleeding not controlled with other treatments
- Chronic pelvic pain linked to uterine disease
Types of Hysterectomy
- Total hysterectomy: Removes the uterus and cervix (most common).
- Supracervical hysterectomy: Removes the upper part of the uterus, leaving the cervix in place.
- Radical hysterectomy: Removes the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissue (usually for cancer).
- With or without salpingo-oophorectomy: Fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be removed, depending on your condition.
How Is It Done?
There are several approaches to hysterectomy:
- Vaginal hysterectomy: Uterus removed through the vagina
- Laparoscopic or robotic-assisted hysterectomy: Small incisions in the abdomen with a camera to guide the surgery; uterus is removed in pieces through small cuts or the vagina.
- Abdominal hysterectomy: Larger incision in the lower abdomen.
Your doctor will recommend the safest option based on your health and condition.
Recovery
- Most women go home within 1–3 days, depending on the type of surgery.
- Light bleeding and mild discomfort are normal for a few days.
- Full recovery usually takes 3–4 weeks for vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy, and 4–6 weeks for abdominal hysterectomy.
- Avoid heavy lifting and sexual activity until your doctor confirms it is safe, usually after 6 weeks.
Risks
Hysterectomy is generally safe, but risks may include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Blood clots
- Injury to nearby organs (bladder, ureters, or bowel)
- Vaginal prolapse (rare, long-term risk)
- Painful intercourse
- Early menopause if ovaries are removed
