What does hysterectomy treat?

A hysterectomy may be considered for cervical or womb cancer, endometrial hyperplasia, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, uterine prolapse or heavy periods that have not improved with other options. It can also be used for placenta accreta when the placenta remains abnormally attached and bleeding risk is substantial.

The operation removes the uterus, so pregnancy is no longer possible afterward. The cervix, fallopian tubes or ovaries may or may not be removed; that choice depends on the condition, symptoms, age and surgical findings. Removing the ovaries can bring on menopause if it has not already occurred.

Discuss non-surgical treatments, the planned route of surgery, recovery needs and whether the cervix or ovaries will remain. Bring a list of medicines and tell the surgical team about previous operations, anaesthetic problems and any possibility of pregnancy.

After surgery, contact your care team for increasing pain, fever, wound redness, heavy vaginal bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, vomiting, or difficulty passing urine. Sudden chest pain, breathlessness, coughing blood or one-sided leg swelling needs urgent assessment.

Ask what condition the operation is treating, which organs will be removed, what alternatives are suitable, and how the procedure may affect fertility, periods, hormones and recovery.