Types of hysterectomy vary depending on how much of the uterus is removed and whether surrounding structures like the cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes are preserved. Understanding these types helps patients make informed decisions before surgery.
The choice of hysterectomy type and surgical approach depends on the reason for surgery and which reproductive organs need to be removed. The ACOG hysterectomy guide explains the differences between total, supracervical and radical hysterectomy, as well as laparoscopic, vaginal and abdominal approaches.
This guide explains all major types of hysterectomy, when each is recommended, and how they affect recovery and long-term health.
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What are the types of hysterectomy?
The main types of hysterectomy include total hysterectomy, subtotal (partial) hysterectomy, radical hysterectomy, and hysterectomy with or without removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes.
The type of hysterectomy describes what is removed, while the surgical approach describes how the procedure is performed. To see how a minimally invasive approach works, watch our laparoscopic hysterectomy procedure video
1. Total Hysterectomy
Total hysterectomy involves removal of the uterus along with the cervix. This is the most commonly performed type of hysterectomy worldwide.
When is it advised?
- Uterine fibroids
- Adenomyosis
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Early-stage gynecological cancers
After total hysterectomy, periods stop permanently, but hormonal function continues if ovaries are preserved.
2. Subtotal (Partial) Hysterectomy
In partial hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed while the cervix is left intact.
Key points:
- Less commonly performed today
- Cervical screening is still required
- Not suitable for cancer cases
3. Radical Hysterectomy
Radical hysterectomy is an extensive surgery in which the uterus, cervix, surrounding tissues, and part of the vagina are removed.
This type is usually done for:
- Cervical cancer
- Advanced uterine cancer
It is performed by specialized gynecologic oncologists.
4. Hysterectomy With or Without Ovaries
During hysterectomy, ovaries may be either preserved or removed:
- Ovaries preserved: Hormonal balance maintained, no immediate menopause
- Ovaries removed (BSO): Surgical menopause may occur
Removal of ovaries is considered in cases of cancer risk, severe endometriosis, or postmenopausal women.
If hysterectomy is being considered because of severe pelvic symptoms, it is important to understand the underlying condition and available alternatives. Read our complete endometriosis guide before making treatment decisions.
Severe endometriosis can sometimes require more extensive treatment, depending on the location and severity of disease. Before considering surgery, understand the causes, symptoms and treatment options for endometriosis pain.
How Is the Type of Hysterectomy Chosen?
The choice depends on:
- Age of the patient
- Underlying medical condition
- Desire to preserve ovaries
- Cancer risk
- Surgeon’s recommendation
Your gynecologist will explain the safest and most appropriate option.
FAQs on Types of Hysterectomy
1. Which type of hysterectomy is most common?
Total hysterectomy is the most commonly performed type.
2. Is partial hysterectomy safer than total hysterectomy?
Not necessarily. Total hysterectomy is preferred in most cases to avoid future cervical problems.
3. Does removing ovaries cause menopause?
Yes, removal of ovaries leads to surgical menopause.
📚 Related Hysterectomy Resources
🔬 Want a complete overview of hysterectomy surgery? Explore our guide on Hysterectomy: Types, Reasons, Procedure, Recovery & Life After Surgery to understand when surgery is recommended, available procedures, and what recovery involves.
💖 Wondering how hysterectomy may affect hormones, menopause, and sexual health? Read Life After Hysterectomy: Hormones, Sex & Common Myths to learn about long-term wellbeing after surgery.
🏥 Planning for surgery or recovery? Follow our guide on Recovery After Hysterectomy: Timeline, Care Tips & When to Resume Normal Life for practical healing advice and recovery milestones.
🌺 Are uterine fibroids the reason surgery was suggested? Learn when Hysterectomy for Fibroids: When Is Surgery Needed? may be recommended and what alternative treatment options are available.
🎥 Prefer a visual explanation? Watch our Hysterectomy Video Guide: Types, Procedure, Recovery & Risks to better understand the different surgical approaches and recovery expectations.
🌸 Comparing minimally invasive procedures? Learn about Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Procedure, Benefits, Recovery & Risks and how it differs from abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy.
Authoritative References
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guide to hysterectomy explains why hysterectomy may be recommended, the different types of hysterectomy, removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes, surgical approaches, risks and recovery. It also explains how the choice of approach can depend on the underlying condition and other individual factors.
The NHS hysterectomy overview provides a useful explanation of total, subtotal, radical and hysterectomy with removal of the tubes and ovaries. It also describes the three main surgical approaches: laparoscopic, vaginal and abdominal hysterectomy.
If you are considering hysterectomy because of heavy bleeding, fibroids or pelvic pain, the NHS guidance on why hysterectomy may be necessary explains the common reasons for surgery and why other treatment options may be considered before hysterectomy.
For women preparing for surgery, the ACOG guidance on preparing for surgery provides practical information about questions to ask before surgery, surgical planning and whether a minimally invasive approach may be appropriate.
