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A vaginal hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus through an incision inside the vagina. It does not require an abdominal incision when performed entirely through the vaginal route. The cervix is usually removed with the uterus, while removal of the ovaries or fallopian tubes is a separate decision. After the uterus is removed, menstrual periods stop, and the person can no longer carry a pregnancy.
read more about vaginal hysterectomy ...A clinician may recommend hysterectomy for uterine prolapse, heavy bleeding, fibroids, or adenomyosis. The vaginal route depends on the size and shape of the uterus, the condition being treated, and prior pelvic surgery. Medication or less extensive procedures may be considered for some noncancerous conditions. The surgeon explains why a vaginal approach is or is not suitable for the patient.
The surgeon makes an incision inside the vagina and separates the uterus from its supporting tissues and blood vessels. The uterus is removed through the vaginal opening, and the incision is closed with stitches. The cervix is generally removed during a total vaginal hysterectomy. If the planned procedure cannot be completed vaginally, the surgeon may need another surgical approach.
Light vaginal bleeding or discharge, fatigue, and pelvic discomfort can occur after surgery. Some patients go home the same day, while others stay in the hospital overnight. The care team gives instructions about lifting, activity, and when to resume vaginal intercourse. Recovery varies with the extent of surgery and the patient's health.
Risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and injury to nearby organs. Anesthesia also carries risks. Removing both ovaries before natural menopause causes surgical menopause, but ovary removal is not part of every vaginal hysterectomy. The surgeon should explain exactly which organs are included in the planned operation.
A procedure performed entirely through the vagina does not require an abdominal incision. Additional laparoscopic surgery would involve small abdominal incisions.
Not automatically. Ovary removal is a separate part of the surgical plan.
No. Removing the uterus stops menstrual periods, even if the ovaries remain.
A person cannot carry a pregnancy after the uterus is removed. Very rarely, an ectopic pregnancy can occur outside the uterus if an ovary remains. New severe pelvic pain after hysterectomy needs prompt medical evaluation.
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Hysterectomy. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002915.htm. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Vaginal hysterectomy. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vaginal-hysterectomy/about/pac-20384541. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Vaginal hysterectomy. Healthdirect Australia. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/vaginal-hysterectomy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Vaginal hysterectomy ? recovering well. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/vaginal-hysterectomy-recovering-well. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.