The hysterectomy is an operation, during which removal of the womb is necessary and can happen for various reasons, in some cases the fallopian tubes and ovaries may also need to be removed as part of the procedure.

Three main types of hysterectomy

• Complete – this is the most common type of the operation and consists of the removal of the cervix as well as the uterus.
• Partial – only the upper part of the uterus is removed and the cervix is left in place.
• Radical – the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina and all supporting tissue has to be removed.

If you are still having your monthly periods when the operation is performed then you will stop having them after the operation, you will also of course not be able to conceive after the operation.

How is the operation performed?

A hysterectomy will be performed by surgery by making a cut in the wall of the abdomen, sometimes a vaginal hysterectomy can be performed and this entails a laparoscope being used to give the surgeon a chance to see what is happening inside the abdomen. However the abdominal hysterectomy is the most common procedure and it also takes the longest for recovery, with recovery time from the operation usually being around eight weeks, though it could be less and during this time you should slowly get back into your daily routine.

What causes a hysterectomy?

There are various reasons why a hysterectomy would be performed with the most common of these being:

• Fibroids – this is the main reason for most hysterectomies.
• Endometriosis.
• Uterine prolapse.
• Cancer.
• Persistent vaginal bleeding.
• Chronic pelvis pain.

Are there any risks involved?

With any type of surgery there are always some risks and the hysterectomy is no different, the risks involved with the surgery include:

• Heavy blood loss may require you to need a blood transfusion.
• Bowel or bladder problems.
• Problems with anaesthesia.
• The wound pulling open if care is not taken.

If your doctor has told you that a hysterectomy is the best option then you should talk this over with them and ask them why they think this is the best option and if there are any other possibilities other than the operation. You should also ask whatever questions you wish and discuss anything that worries or bothers you. If you are still not happy then you could consider getting a second opinion, however a hysterectomy isn’t something that your doctor would suggest lightly as it is an extreme measure.