A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, usually done by a gynecologist. Hysterectomy may be total (removing the body and cervix of the uterus) or partial (also called supra-cervical). In many cases, surgical removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy) is performed concurrent with a hysterectomy. The surgery is then called "total abdominal hysterectomy with salpingo-oopherectomy."

Although many hysterectomies are performed via a full abdominal incision laparotomy, two common surgical approaches which are less invasive are laparoscopically or vaginally. Surgery with ovarian conservation is an option for the pre-menopausal patient with benign disease (non cancer).

Indications for hysterectomy include uterine fibroids, pelvic pain (including endometriosis and adenomyosis), pelvic relaxation (or prolapse), heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding, and cancer or pre-cancer diseases.

Uterine fibroids, although a benign disease, may cause heavy menstrual flow and discomfort to some women. Many treatments are possible: medical (the use of NSAIDS for the pain or hormones to suppress the menstrual cycle), uterine artery embolization, or surgical. The surgical treatment varies depending on the location of the fibroids. If the fibroids are inside the lining of the uterus, hysteroscopic removal might be an option.