A hysterectomy is the removal of the womb, or uterus, by surgery. This is done for such reasons as:
* cancers of the uterus, cervix, or ovary,
* heavy bleeding that has not been controlled by medicines,
* pain, not controlled by treatment,
* severely infected tubes and ovaries despite drugs,
* a dropped uterus, and
* very large or growing growths on the uterus, called fibroids.

There are several ways to do this surgery. How it is done will depend on your needs and other factors such as:
* the expected problem and the possible need for more surgery, as with a cancer,
* your body type and health,
* how much the uterus has dropped and the need for other support repair procedures, and
* the experience of the surgeon.

Your reason for needing the surgery often will help decide how the surgery is done. You will want to discuss whether the surgery is done with a cut on the abdomen or in the vagina only. An instrument called a laparoscope may be used to lessen the incision on the abdomen. You will also want to discuss whether your ovaries, which produce your female hormones, need to be removed at this time. This will effect you the most if you have not entered menopause yet. If these are removed, menopause start immediately and hormone replacement will be needed from that point on.

Before the surgery you may need to increase your iron in the blood by taking vitamins. You may also want to donate your own blood for yourself if a large amount of bleeding is expected. Tests like a Pap smear, a sampling of the lining of the uterus, as well as blood and kidney tests may be needed before your surgery. Your hospital recovery after the surgery, may last one to 5 days depending on the type of surgery. You can expect to be sore for 2 to 4 weeks and to have decreased activity during that time. As long as you understand and are prepared for the surgery, you will do well and recover quickly.

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