What should you know about private hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy may be considered for problems such as fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, heavy periods, persistent pelvic pain, precancerous womb-lining changes or some cancers. It can be performed through the abdomen, vagina or keyhole surgery when suitable. Removing the womb ends periods and means pregnancy cannot occur. Removing the ovaries causes immediate loss of ovarian hormone production; keeping them may be possible depending on the diagnosis and age. Ask whether the cervix will remain, because this affects follow-up screening.

Before booking, discuss the reason for surgery, alternatives, fertility wishes, menopause effects and the planned surgical route. Share medicines, allergies and previous operations. Recovery depends on the approach and your health. Arrange help with lifting, driving and household tasks, and follow wound, bathing and activity instructions. Attend the post-operative review so persistent symptoms, pathology results and hormone treatment can be discussed.

After surgery, seek urgent advice for heavy vaginal bleeding, worsening abdominal pain, fever, breathlessness, chest pain, a painful swollen leg, repeated vomiting or difficulty passing urine. A small amount of discharge can occur, but new or increasing symptoms need assessment. Before surgery, urgent review is needed for sudden severe pelvic pain or very heavy bleeding.

Ask why hysterectomy is recommended, which organs will be removed, which alternatives remain, how fertility and menopause may change, and what recovery support you will need.