When is hysterectomy recommended for womb cancer?

Womb cancer often begins in the lining of the uterus. The operation may remove the uterus and cervix, with the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or nearby lymph nodes considered according to age, tumour characteristics, and the risk of spread. The surgical approach may be through keyhole surgery, an open operation, or another route chosen by the team.

Discuss the pathology findings, the planned extent of surgery, and whether additional treatment may follow. Tell the team about medicines, allergies, other conditions, and any wish to preserve fertility. Ask about recovery, menopause effects if ovaries are removed, and support for returning to usual activities.

After surgery, contact the team for fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding, unpleasant discharge, redness around an incision, or difficulty passing urine. Urgent assessment is needed for severe bleeding, fainting, chest pain, or sudden breathlessness.

Ask how the tumour type and grade affect the recommendation, whether lymph nodes or ovaries may be removed, what fertility-preserving choices exist, what recovery involves, and how pathology after surgery will guide further care.