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Hysterectomy: Should You or Shouldn’t You?


Although women recognize the word hysterectomy, the procedure is often misunderstood. That’s why it’s essential to ask your doc what really needs to be removed, says William Parker, MD, clinical professor OB-GYN at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine. Here’s the lowdown.

Hysterectomy is the removal of just your uterus.

Total hysterectomy includes the removal of the cervix. Nearly 90 percent of women undergoing hysterectomies have this done.

Total hysterectomy with oophorectomy is the removal of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries; around half of all total hysterectomy patients have their ovaries removed, too.

How do you find out what’s the right choice for you?

Talk with your doc. Some doctors believe removing the uterus, cervix, and ovaries is rarely appropriate. Get a second opinion if you aren’t sure.

Ask about side effects: Incontinence, lubrication and orgasm problems.

By Nancy Larson

Last Updated: July 16, 2009
Filed Under: Mind and Body
Also Tagged: , ,
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Comments (5)

The following content represents the opinions of Health.com users. It is not editorially reviewed for medical or factual accuracy. It does not constitute medical advice. See your doctor for medical advice.
  • LINDA

    mY GYN AND i TALKED ABOUT ME GETTING A HYSTECT I BLEED 2 TIMES A WK AND IT REAL BAD. YES MY TUBES ARE TYED AND IM 45YRS OLD. i CANT WORK WHEN I HAVE MY PIORED. i CANT STAND BECAUSE IT POORS OUT. i CANT TAKE LIVING LIKE THIS NO MORE. HE ASKED WOULD I GO WITH HAVING A HYSTERSTOMIE. iT SOUNDS GREAT TO ME i DONT NEED MY BLUMBING NO MORE. i HAVE 4 WONDERFUL CHILDREN. wHAT I NEED TO KNOW IS HOW DOES THE REMOVEL OF THIS WORKS?

  • Cornelia Pope

    I was told by my Dr. that I have complex hiperplasia stage 2 and she would like for me to have a D/C or a hysterectomy

  • Michelle

    I just had a hysterectomy by LASH – and am pleased as punch so far! My periods were so painful I had to stay home, medicated, and so heavy I could never predict my own self care. Forget staying out or traveling, it was nearly impossible. The procedure was out patient, two weeks at home and then back in the swing of things. Still recovering on the inside after a month, using muscles that were neglected a while. Scars? heck, not even worth the mention. One in my belly button I cannot see, one very small by hip bone and one larger below pubic hair line. I recommend as an alternative.

  • Alicia

    well as for me im a lil too young for a hysterectomy… or maybe not. I havent spoke to my doc. about this but maybe down the road i should. I have 2 wonderful kids and thankful that i could have kids. But every single time I’m on my period it sucks. I’m in pain. Plus im anemic

  • marissa

    is a hysterectomy dangerous? My mom is getting one in a few days, and im really scared for her. help!

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