Does radical hysterectomy help with bleeding between periods?

Bleeding between periods can have many causes, including hormonal changes, contraception, infection, polyps, fibroids, pregnancy-related problems or changes in the cervix or womb. A radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix and nearby tissues, and may remove nearby lymph nodes. It is generally considered for selected gynaecological cancers, not simply because bleeding is present.

If surgery is appropriate, removing the affected organs can address bleeding arising from them. It also ends menstrual periods and the ability to carry a pregnancy, so the benefits, effects and alternatives need careful discussion.

Arrange a gynaecology assessment and record when bleeding occurs, how heavy it is, pain, medicines, contraception and pregnancy possibility. Testing may include an examination, pregnancy test, swabs, ultrasound or a sample of tissue, depending on your history. Ask whether a less extensive treatment fits the cause. Do not delay review because the bleeding is intermittent.

Seek urgent care for very heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pelvic pain, fever, weakness, or bleeding during a possible pregnancy. Contact a clinician soon for repeated bleeding, bleeding after sex, or bleeding with unusual discharge. These warning features need assessment; they do not establish a cancer diagnosis.

What could be causing my bleeding? Which tests do I need? Is there evidence of cancer, and if so, why would radical hysterectomy be suitable? What fertility, hormonal and recovery effects should I plan for?