Hysterectomy - why is this so common?

[twirlaround]

Can't understand why such a high proportion of women have this fairly major op.

Anyone know the answer?

I've read something about this in the past which basically said it's so common because it's a lazy answer (for the HP) to women's complaints. "Taking it all away" means that no one has to spend time researching other ways to alleviate gynae problems and that it's also an anti-woman attitude, a way of defeminising them. Not sure how much I agree with that, that's just what I've read!

if my mum had just had the ops she needed rather than a hysterectomy... she would have been left with half an overy - whats the point in that??

I suppose it cuts out the ridk of cervical/ovrian cancer etc.

I think it's used when a woman has mentrual problems/other conditions and has definitely finished her family, to reduce the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer.

Besides I'm sure doctors dont put patiens on the nhs waiting list for this op just willy nilly, they must have reasons.

so once you have finished having kids get rid of your womb so you don't get cancer?

That sounds a bit weird to me