Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is surgical removal of the uterus. There are several reasons why a hysterectomy may become necessary. These include:

1) Uterine fibroids

2) Endometriosis

3) Pelvic support problems (such as uterine prolapse)

4) Abnormal uterine bleeding

5) Cancer

6) Chronic pelvic pain

There are several types of hysterectomies. These are:

Total Abdominal Hysterectomy – the uterus and cervix are removed through an abdominal incision.
Total Vaginal Hysterectomy – the uterus and cervix are removed through the vagina.
Supra-cervical hysterectomy – the uterus only is removed through abdominal incision and the cervix is left in place.
Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy – the uterus and cervix removed through the vagina and 3 small incisions on the abdomen.

Please note that removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries is not included in the definition of a Hysterectomy but is actually a separate procedure.