Medical Questions » Hysterectomy Questions » Question No. 523
| Question: | I am confused about what happens during a hysterectomy. My gynaecologist told me I had a total hysterectomy plus an ovary removed. Can you explain the different parts of me that I have lost? |
| Answer: | The female reproductive organs consist of two ovaries, each of which has a Fallopian tube leading from it to the uterus (womb). The narrow opening of the uterus into the vagina is the cervix. The vagina is the part used during sexual intercourse. The lips around the outside opening of the vagina are the vulva.
In a hysterectomy (or total hysterectomy), the uterus, cervix and usually both Fallopian tubes are removed. In a sub-total hysterectomy, the cervix is left behind. This latter operation is rarely performed.
In most women who have a hysterectomy, one ovary is removed in an operation called oophorectomy. If the operation is for cancer, or other serious disease, both ovaries may be removed (a bilateral oophorectomy).
If you are confused, it is better to ask the gynaecologist performing the operation to describe in simple terms (and preferably using a diagram such as the one opposite) exactly which parts s/he intends to remove.
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