Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus performed in the hospital. In a total hysterectomy, the uterus and cervix are removed. In some cases, the fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed along with the uterus. In a subtotal hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed. In a radical hysterectomy, the uterus, cervix, ovaries, oviducts, lymph nodes, and lymph channels are removed. The type of hysterectomy performed depends on the reason for the procedure. In all cases, menstruation stops and a woman loses the ability to bear children.
Some reasons for hysterectomy include:
- Fibroid tumors causing irregular, heavy or lengthy menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain
- Cancer
- Endometriosis