A hysterectomy is defined as the surgical removal of the uterus. There are two common types of hysterectomy: full and partial. A full hysterectomy involves removing the entire uterus including the cervix, while in a partial hysterectomy the cervix is left intact. Sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed at the same time as well, but this is considered a separate procedure.

Full hysterectomies are the most common kind, but there have been arguments in recent years that a partial hysterectomy is better. Here are some of the arguments in favor of partial hysterectomies:

* Some doctors claim that leaving the cervix intact reduces the risk of uterine prolapse. They say that removing the cervix damages the supports of the vagina, making prolapse more likely.

* Studies have shown that there is less likelihood of sexual dysfunction in women who have had partial hysterectomies compared to those who have had full hysterectomies. Women who’ve had partial hysterectomies have reported greater sexual satisfaction and more frequent intercourse and orgasm than women who’ve had full hysterectomies.  Read more...