Take or leave cervix

For me, this has been the most confusing decision.

I'm 47, and I have a cantaloupe sized cyst in my ovary, so my ovaries are going to go. I have fibroids in my uterus that have caused me to have periods from Hades, so the uterus is going, but what to do about the cervix? On my forms, my doc wrote that the cervix was to be removed without asking me if I wanted that. I thought it was standard procedure until I came on here. Are there benefits to keeping the cervix if you have no family history of gyn cancer and no abnormal pap smears?

Hi JudeD!

A very recent scientific study shows that hysterectomy patients who have their cervix removed are no more likely to experience sexual difficulties or urinary or bowel problems after surgery than women who have only their uterus removed. You can read more about it here:

http://www.news-medical.net/?id=18073

I had a total abdominal hysterectomy which means my cervix was removed. I never was really “aware” of it before, so losing it made no difference to me personally.

Others who kept their cervix claim that keeping it has been a benefit to them. But, since they have never experienced life without a cervix, they have nothing with which to compare it. Maybe they would have also been happy with their surgical results if they had had their cervix removed.

If you have a choice whether to keep your cervix or not, I hope that, in partnership with your medical providers, you make the choice that is best for you.

Many s and Best Wishes,

Thanks, Carmen! That article was very helpful!

Judy