Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to take out the uterus.  Once the uterus is removed, a woman will stop having monthly periods and will not be able to have children. She will still go through menopause as normal between 45 and 55 years of age.

Traditional abdominal hystorcomies are when an incision is made to the abdomen to remove the uterus.

Minimally invasive hystoectomies are also possible.  During these procedures, a laparoscope is inserted into small incisions in the abdomen and the uterus is removed through the vagina. It is called an LAVH (laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy).

A total vaginal hysterectomy (TVH) is when an incision is made to the vagina and the uterus is removed through this incision.

If the surgeon also removes the fallopian tubes and ovaries that are attached to the uterus, it is called a BSO (bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy). Once the ovaries are removed, menopause will start immediately.

Reasons You May Need a Hysterectomy
Your doctor might recommend that you have a hysterectomy if you have any of these or other common problems:

• Endometriosis: Tissue from inside the uterus that grows outside the uterus and causes scarring or adhesions, bleeding and pain
• Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths inside or attached to the uterus causing heavy bleeding, pain or urinary problems
• Cancer: Malignant tumors in the uterus, cervix, ovaries or tubes
• Pelvic Relaxation: When the bladder, rectum or uterus drops causing urinary problems or pelvic pressure

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