What does hysterectomy mean?
A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus, usually performed because of a serious medical condition such as fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal bleeding, or certain cancers. The term does not automatically imply that the ovaries or fallopian tubes have also been removed; the structures removed are specified by the full name of the procedure. In a total hysterectomy, the uterus and cervix are removed, while a partial or subtotal hysterectomy leaves the cervix in place. More extensive procedures may also remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Patients and their families often use the term when discussing surgery, recovery, and the long-term effects of losing the uterus. The word combines the Greek term hystera, meaning “uterus,” with the surgical suffix -ectomy, meaning “cutting out” or “removal.” It is a clear, established medical term in British and American English.
nounA surgical operation in which the uterus is removed. Depending on the type of procedure, the cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries may also be removed.
- The surgical removal of the uterus, with or without the removal of other reproductive organs.
"She underwent a hysterectomy after the scan confirmed a serious abnormality in her uterus."
"The surgeon explained the risks and expected recovery time before the hysterectomy."
"Her hysterectomy ended the severe symptoms caused by fibroids."
The standard plural is hysterectomies, used for separate operations or for a count of procedures.
"The hospital performed more than two hundred hysterectomies last year."
Its name is remarkably transparent: the Greek root for uterus and a suffix meaning “surgical removal” combine to describe the operation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hysterectomy come from?
The word was formed in the 19th century from Greek hystēra, meaning “uterus,” and the combining form -ektomia, meaning “a cutting out.” Its components reflect the standard Greek-derived vocabulary used in modern medicine. It belongs to the same etymological family as terms such as hysteroscopy, hysterotomy, and hysterography.
Related word forms
How hysterectomy is actually used
In medical usage, a hysterectomy specifically denotes removal of the uterus; it does not by itself necessarily mean that the ovaries were removed. Terms such as total, partial, and radical describe variations in the extent of the operation.
Easily confused with hysterectomy
A hysterectomy removes the uterus, whereas a hysterotomy is an incision made into the uterus, commonly to deliver a baby.