Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy a surgical procedure where the uterus is removed, ending menstruation and the ability to become pregnant.

Reasons for this surgery include abnormal bleeding, uterine prolapse and cancer.

Why is hysterectomy performed?

A hysterectomy may be performed to treat:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding that is not controlled by other treatment methods.
• Severe endometriosis (uterine tissue that grows outside the uterus).
• Leiomyomas or uterine fibroids (not cancerous tumors) that have increased in size, are painful or are causing bleeding.
• Increased pelvic pain related to the uterus but not controlled by other treatment.
• Uterine prolapse (uterus that has “dropped” into the vaginal canal due to weakened support muscles) that can lead to urinary incontinence or difficulty with bowel movements.
• Cervical or uterine cancer or abnormalities that may lead to cancer for cancer prevention.