How effective is hysterectomy for cervical cancer?

A hysterectomy removes the womb and cervix. Depending on the cancer, the surgeon may also remove nearby tissues, lymph nodes, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. The operation is considered alongside examination, imaging, biopsy findings, and the tumour's position.

Surgery may be suitable when the cancer is confined to the cervix or nearby tissues. If it has spread farther, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or another treatment may be more appropriate, sometimes with surgery. Removing the womb means pregnancy is no longer possible.

Ask whether the planned operation is a simple or radical hysterectomy and whether lymph nodes will be assessed. Discuss how the operation may affect fertility, ovaries, sexual wellbeing, bladder function, and recovery. Your team can explain whether additional treatment may be needed after the surgical findings are known.

Before surgery, share your medicines, allergies, previous operations, and any concerns about menopause or fertility. Learn more from [Cervical Cancer] and [Hysterectomy].

After surgery, contact the care team promptly for fever, worsening pelvic pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, difficulty passing urine, or a wound that becomes red and swollen. Sudden breathlessness or chest pain needs emergency assessment.

What stage and size is my cervical cancer? Is surgery suitable for me? Which organs or lymph nodes may be removed? Will I need radiotherapy or chemotherapy afterward? How will recovery affect work, sex, and fertility?