The essential guide to hysterectomy: advice from a gynecologist on your choices before, during, and after surgery

Hysterectomy past and present. The history and politics of hysterectomy ; Anatomy 101 ; Who gets a hysterectomy? Who absolutely needs one?

Uterine disorders and alternatives to hysterectomy. Fibroids : what, where, and how ; Nonsurgical treatment of fibroids ; Removing fibroids ; Uterine prolapse ; Pain and abnormal bleeding ; Precancerous conditions and cancer

Surgery and recovery. Abdominal hysterectomy ; Vaginal hysterectomy and treatment of urinary incontinence ; Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted hysterectomy ; Choosing a surgeon ; Anesthetic issues ; Preparing for surgery ; The day of surgery ; Recovering from surgery ; Complications and how to reduce your risk

Decisions regarding surgery. The cervix decision ; The ovary decision ; Women at genetic risk for gynecologic cancers ; Time for that tummy tuck? Plastic and associated procedures

Life after hysterectomy. Exercise and other activities ; A word (or two) about hormones ; Alternatives to estrogen therapy ; Sex after hysterectomy ; Pregnancy after hysterectomy ; What I have learned from my patients (and their husbands).