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HysterectomyWomen's Health Information Package
DefinitionHysterectomy is the removal of a woman's uterus (womb). It is one of the most common surgical procedures performed on women worldwide. Traditionally, there have been many reasons why a hysterectomy was performed, but new and emerging research and procedures are now providing other treatment options.  About the information resourcesThe resources on hysterectomy contained in this information package were compiled following an extensive search of Women's Health Victoria's (WHV) Clearinghouse Resource Collection database. Included are details of relevant books, journals, articles, web sites, pamphlets or videos that have been independently reviewed by a health professional. The emphasis is on the Australian situation and a social model of health and feminist approach are included to broaden the framework within which information is provided and decisions made. All of these resources and a range of others (not listed here) covering many topics from both medical and alternative therapy perspectives are available from the WHV Clearinghouse Resource Centre. A description of how Women's Health Information packages are developed and resources chosen is available here.
General1. Having it out: who has a hysterectomy these days? This short article draws on information from the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health. It examines differences in hysterectomy rates across states and among urban, rural and remote areas, as well as quality of life and levels of health care use.
 2. Surgery versus medical therapy for heavy menstrual bleeding Full text is available here. Extensive evidence based review comparing the efficacy, safety and acceptability of surgery (uterine resection or ablation and hysterectomy) versus medical therapy (oral medication and hormone releasing intrauterine system) for heavy menstrual bleeding.
3. Methods of hysterectomy: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials Full text is available here. Systematic review to evaluate the most appropriate surgical method of hysterectomy for women with benign disease. It looks at time taken to return to normal activities, as well as intraoperative injury, long-term complications and secondary outcomes of operating time. Length of stay and complications of surgery are outlined.
4. Hysterectomy and sexual wellbeing: prospective observational study of vaginal hysterectomy, subtotal abdominal hysterectomy, and total abdominal hysterectomy Full text is available here. This observational study compares the effects of different types of hysterectomy on sexual well being reporting on sexual pleasure, activity and problems.
5. The association of hysterectomy and menopause: a prospective cohort study This recent study explores whether hysterectomy leads to an earlier onset of menopause. It found that hysterectomy in premenopausal women is associated with loss of ovarian function nearly four years earlier than women who do not undergo hysterectomy. These results should be included in discussions with women considering hysterectomy.
Specific situations6. Moving forward or losing ground? The sterilisation of women and girls with disabilities in Australia Full text is available here. This paper is part of a national project on the sterilisation and reproductive health of women and girls with disabilities. This paper looks at the issue from a human rights perspective, tracing developments in Australia and discussing some of the critical elements from the project and broader societal debate.
7. Menstrual management and women with an intellectual disability: a guide for GPs Full text is available here (PDF 354KB) This booklet aids GPs in assisting women with an intellectual disability to manage their menstruation. It discusses medical options and special medical procedures under the Guardianship and Administration Act (1986).
8. Consensus statement: menstrual and contraceptive management in women with an intellectual disability Full text is available here. This statement endorsed by the Royal Australian & NZ College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) discusses the evidence-based management of menstrual problems in women with an intellectual disability. It lists issues for consideration, assessment, investigations and management options, including when consent may be required from the Office of the Public Advocates/Guardianship Board.
9. Hysterectomy Full text is available here. This comprehensive, six-page pamphlet was written by an Australian women's health service. It includes a short paragraph of alternative treatments to hysterectomy for each medical indication and has clear diagrams of the procedure. It discusses what to expect post-operatively, and some possible surgical complications. It also gives consumer tips on how to discuss hysterectomy with health professionals.
10. What women should know about hysterectomy Full text is available here. Information fact sheet about hysterectomy, available in 18 languages.
11. Hysterectomy and sexuality This article provides a straightforward exploration about an important issue that is often overlooked. It cites research about how women's sexuality can be affected by hysterectomy. The role of the uterus in relation to sexual response is discussed and the effect of the intervention. This is a useful companion article to any consultation regarding the possible outcomes of hysterectomy.
Languages other than EnglishIf you are looking for information on a variety of health topics in languages other than English try searching:
Resources reviewed June 2005 For details on how to locate any of this information or to confidentially discuss any of this information, contact your local Women’s Health Service or the RWH Women's Health Information Centre phone line, Monday to Friday 9am-5pm on (03) 9344 2007; Country Callers: 1800 442 007; or email. Health professionals and other service providers wishing to access the services of the WHV Clearinghouse contact us by phone: (03) 9662 3755, fax: (03) 9663 7955; or email. Other resource information on various health topics can be accessed via the Clearinghouse Resource Collection database. Online access is available here. For easy printing of this document open the PDF version
YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US We would encourage you to take a moment to email our Health Information Officer, at clearinghouse@whv.org.au and let us know:
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