Does hysterectomy treat womb cancer?

A hysterectomy often treats womb cancer by removing the womb and the main site of the tumour. The operation usually includes removal of the cervix, and nearby tissues or lymph nodes may also be assessed. Whether surgery is enough depends on the cancer’s type, grade, stage, and spread.

Womb cancer is often found in the lining of the womb, called the endometrium. During an operation, the surgeon may remove the womb, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries; the exact plan is individual. The tissue is examined after surgery to identify features that affect the chance of cancer returning. Depending on those findings, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone treatment, or another medicine may be discussed.

Ask which operation is recommended and whether lymph nodes will be checked. Discuss fertility, menopause, sexual health, recovery, and symptom control before consenting. Tell the team about medicines, bleeding problems, previous operations, and other conditions. Ask when the pathology results will be available and how they will change the next step.

After surgery, call the care team for heavy bleeding, fever, increasing abdominal pain, wound changes, leg swelling, or difficulty passing urine. Emergency help is needed for chest pain, severe breathlessness, collapse, or sudden confusion. Before treatment, report persistent or heavy vaginal bleeding promptly, especially after menopause.

What type and stage of womb cancer do I have? Is hysterectomy the recommended first treatment? Which organs or lymph nodes may be removed? Could I need treatment after surgery? How will the pathology report guide that decision?