Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed from the body. It is typically used to treat conditions that affect the uterus including uterine fibroid tumors, cancer, or endometriosis. Hysterectomies can also be used as a preventive measure for certain diseases, or to improve quality of life. The removal of the uterus does not affect the function of the ovaries, so women may still experience some of the hormonal changes associated with menopause. Hysterectomy is a major surgery and carries significant risks, so it should be discussed with a healthcare provider before making a decision.