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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100029.htm

Hysterectomy - Series—Indications

Indications

Overview

A hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, resulting in the inability to become pregnant (sterility). May be done through the abdomen or the vagina.

Hysterectomy may be recommended for:

  • Severe, long-term (chronic) infections (pelvic inflammatory disease)
  • Severe inflammation of the lining of the uterus (endometriosis)
  • Tumors in the uterus
  • Uterine fibroids, cancer of the endometrium
  • Cancer of the cervix, cancer of the ovary
  • Severe, long-term (chronic) vaginal bleeding

Review Date 3/31/2024

Updated by: LaQuita Martinez, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alpharetta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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