Thinking About Hysterectomy

Before suggesting a hysterectomy, your doctor will evaluate your health problem. You and your doctor will go over the results of your exams and tests. Together, you can discuss your options and make a treatment plan.

Planning Your Treatment

Options for treating your problem may include medications, nonsurgical procedures, hysterectomy, or a combination of treatments. While you are considering your options, think about these questions:

• What other treatments are available? Are there medications or other types of surgery that are likely to relieve your symptoms?

• How severe is your problem? Is your health problem getting in the way of your daily life? Is the problem getting worse? If the answer to these questions is “no,” a hysterectomy may not be needed.

• Do you want to have children? If you are in your childbearing years and wish to have children, take time to explore options that may help you avoid a hysterectomy.

• Are you at risk of ovarian cancer? If you’re at increased risk of ovarian cancer, your doctor may suggest removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes along with the uterus.