Hysterectomy Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of a woman's uterus. It may also involve the removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Once a hysterectomy is performed, a woman can no longer have children or menstrual periods. Hysterectomy is used to treat a number of conditions, such as excessive menstrual bleeding and cancer. Conditions that may require hysterectomy A hysterectomy may be performed to correct various gynecological problems including: • Heavy, irregular or abnormal menstrual bleeding • Fibroids • Endometriosis • Uterine prolapse • Cancer of the uterus, ovary or cervix • Pelvic inflammatory disease. Medical issues to consider Apart from cancer, many of the gynecological conditions assisted by hysterectomy may also be successfully treated using other methods. If, after discussion of all options with your doctor, you choose to have a hysterectomy, there are several things that your doctor should discuss with you before the operation. These include: • Your medical history (as some pre-existing conditions may influence decisions on surgery and anesthetics). • The pros and cons of abdominal surgery versus vaginal surgery. • Your support options after surgery. • Your feelings about the surgery. • You will have a range of tests, including a complete blood count test to check for problems such as anemia. Vaginal hysterectomy A vaginal hysterectomy is performed through an incision (cut) at the top of the vagina. This may or may not involve the use of a laproscope. A laproscope is a slender instrument used in 'keyhole' surgery. During a laproscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy, surgery is performed via three or four small incisions in the abdomen. It is completed through the vagina. Vaginal hysterectomy is a preferred option for many women as it avoids the need for a long abdominal cut. An abdominal procedure is generally recommended when large fibroids or cancer is present.