Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, and most likely, the cervix. Depending on the reason for the surgery, a hysterectomy may involve removing surrounding organs and tissues, such as the fallopian tubes and ovaries. The uterus is where a fetus grows during pregnancy. Its lining is the blood you shed during your menstrual period. You won’t be able to get pregnant and you won’t get your period after a hysterectomy.

A laparoscope (a thin tube with a video camera on the end) is inserted in your lower abdomen through a small incision in your belly button. Surgical tools are inserted through several other small incisions. Your uterus can be removed in small pieces through the incisions in your abdomen or through your vagina. Some people go home the same day or after one night in the hospital. Full recovery is shorter and less painful than an abdominal hysterectomy.