Hysterectomy
Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
What is a hysterectomy? A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus (womb). The uterus is the place where a fetus grows during pregnancy. A hysterectomy treats problems like heavy bleeding, pain, or cancer in the uterus. After a hysterectomy, you no longer have menstrual periods and can't become pregnant. Sometimes the surgery also removes the ovaries and fallopian tubes. If you have both ovaries taken out, menopause symptoms will usually begin. What conditions does a hysterectomy treat? Hysterectomy is a major surgery. Your health care provider may suggest other treatment options first. These might include medicine, hormone therapy, or procedures to remove fibroids or stop heavy bleeding. Sometimes these won't help, or surgery might be the only option, depending on the condition that needs to be treated. Your provider might recommend a hysterectomy if you have: Fibroids , if you are near or past menopause, have large fibroids or very heavy bleeding. Endometriosis , that hasn't been cured by medicine or surgery. Uterine prolapse , which can happen after several vaginal births, menopause, or because of obesity. It is when the uterus drops into the vagina. Cancer , of the uterus , cervix , ovaries , or endometrium (the lining of the uterus). Vaginal bleeding , that is heavy or unusual and persists despite treatment. Chronic pelvic pain , which starts in the uterus. A hysterectomy is a last resort since it doesn't fix some pelvic pain. Adenomyosis , is a thickening of the walls of the uterus. A hysterectomy is only considered if pain is severe and no other treatments have worked. What are the different types of hysterectomies? Your provider will discuss the type of hysterectomy you need, depending on your condition. The different types of surgeries include: A total hysterectomy is the most common type and involves the removal of all the uterus, including the cervix. The ovaries and fallopian tubes may or may not be removed. A partial (subtotal or supracervical) hyst