A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus. It is considered for conditions such as large fibroids, heavy bleeding, prolapse or certain cancers when other treatments have not worked. There are several types and approaches, and modern surgery often uses minimally invasive (keyhole or vaginal) techniques.
What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy removes the womb, which means periods stop and pregnancy is no longer possible. It is a major decision, usually made after other options have been tried or ruled out.
The main types
- Total hysterectomy — removes the uterus and cervix (the most common type).
- Subtotal (partial) hysterectomy — removes the uterus but leaves the cervix.
- Radical hysterectomy — removes the uterus, cervix and surrounding tissue, used mainly for cancer.
The ovaries are a separate decision — they are not always removed, and keeping them avoids surgical menopause in younger women.
How it is done
- Vaginal — removed through the vagina, with no abdominal cut.
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) — through small incisions with a camera.
- Open (abdominal) — through a larger incision, for complex or very large cases.
Your surgeon recommends the least invasive approach that is safe for your situation.
Recovery
Recovery is generally faster after vaginal or keyhole surgery (often two to four weeks) than after open surgery (around six weeks). Your team gives you a clear, written plan and follow-up.
What about menopause?
If the ovaries are kept, you do not go through menopause because of the surgery. If they are removed, menopause begins; this is discussed in advance, including the option of hormone support where appropriate.
See the full gynaecological surgery guide, our menopause clinic, and the price list.
Sources: RCOG, NICE, ACOG. This article is for general education and does not replace a medical consultation. Reviewed by Assist. Prof. Dr. Muzaffer Uçarer (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), UCARER Women’s Health, Istanbul.
