A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus. Hysterectomies are used to treat problems of the uterus, including fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic support problems, abnormal uterine bleeding, cancer, and chronic pelvic pain, among others.

After a hysterectomy, a woman's periods will stop and she can no longer get pregnant.

There are several types of hysterectomy. The type of procedure used depends on the individual patient and her condition.

The uterus is removed through the vagina. Laparoscopic surgery is performed using a laparoscope, a thin, lighted telescope inserted through a small incision in the abdomen, enabling the doctor to see the pelvic organs on a screen while doing the surgery. Recovery from LAVH is similar to vaginal hysterectomy.