Glossary: hysterectomy

The lower, narrow end of the uterus that forms a canal between the uterus and vagina.

Surgery to remove the uterus and, sometimes, the cervix. When the uterus and the cervix are removed, it is called a total hysterectomy. When only the uterus is removed, it is called a partial hysterectomy.

Surgery to remove the uterus, but not the cervix. Also called subtotal hysterectomy.

A procedure to remove or repair a part of the body or to find out whether disease is present. An operation.

The small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis. This is the organ in which a fetus develops. Also called womb.