Hysterectomy: Life-Changing, Sometimes Life-Saving
2/19/2026
What to know about the most common gynecologic surgery
A hysterectomy — surgery to remove the uterus — is one of the most common procedures in women’s healthcare. About one in three women in the United States will undergo the surgery by age 60.
While removing the uterus ends the ability to carry a pregnancy, the procedure can also bring significant relief from chronic pain, heavy bleeding and other serious gynecologic conditions. It may also be lifesaving in certain circumstances when other treatments have failed.
“Hysterectomy is often recommended when symptoms begin interfering with a woman’s quality of life or when a serious medical condition is present,” said Dr. Maria Torres, OB-GYN with Victoria Women’s Clinic. “For many patients, the procedure allows them to return to normal daily activities without the pain or complications they’ve been living with.”
Why Hysterectomies are Performed
The most common reason for hysterectomy is treatment of uterine fibroids, but physicians may also recommend it for:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine prolapse (loss of pelvic support)
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Gynecologic cancers
- Placenta accreta during childbirth
Advances in surgical options
Historically, hysterectomies required a large abdominal incision, multi-day hospitalization and lengthy recovery. While that approach is still sometimes necessary, advances in surgical techniques now allow many patients to recover faster.
Today, procedures may be performed:
- Vaginally, with no abdominal incision
- Laparoscopically through small incisions
- With robotic-assisted technology for greater precision
“A hysterectomy remains a major surgery, but how we perform it depends on a patient’s anatomy, condition and overall health,” Torres said. “Whenever minimally invasive methods are appropriate, patients typically experience less pain, minimal scarring and a much shorter recovery time.”
Important Decisions Before Surgery
Before surgery, physicians also determine whether the cervix, fallopian tubes or ovaries should be removed. These decisions are based on medical history, cancer risk, symptoms and the patient’s personal goals.
Life After Hysterectomy
Even after a hysterectomy, routine women’s health care remains essential.
If the ovaries are not removed, hormonal cycles may continue and some symptoms like bloating or cramping can occur. If the ovaries are removed, menopause begins immediately. Regular visits help manage hormonal health and screen for other gynecologic conditions.
“A hysterectomy treats specific problems, but it doesn’t replace ongoing preventive care,” Torres said. “Annual well-woman visits remain one of the most important steps women can take to protect their long-term health.”
To schedule a well-woman exam or discuss symptoms with a DeTar Medical Group primary care provider, visit www.MyDeTarDoctor.com.
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