A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus, also
called the womb. After the operation, a person can no longer become pregnant
and will no longer have menstrual periods.
What It Can Include
Depending on the type, the surgery may remove
only the uterus or also the cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. A **total**
hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix, while a **radical** hysterectomy
removes more surrounding tissue and is usually done for certain cancers.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may recommend a hysterectomy for heavy
bleeding, pelvic pain, uterine prolapse, cancer, or other serious uterine
problems. In some cases, it is also used as risk-reducing surgery or as an
emergency treatment for severe bleeding after childbirth.
How It’s Performed
A hysterectomy may be done through the vagina,
through small abdominal cuts using a camera, or through a larger abdominal
incision. The best approach depends on the reason for surgery and the person’s
overall health.
Important Effects
Recovery and side effects vary, but common effects
can include pain, bleeding, and a period of healing after surgery. If the
ovaries are removed, menopause starts right away; if they are kept, menopause
may happen earlier than usual.
TL;DR
A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus, often done
for bleeding, pain, prolapse, or cancer. It ends pregnancy and menstrual
periods, and sometimes includes removal of nearby reproductive organs.