What is the reason that you're scheduled for a hysterectomy?

Some basic anatomical information about the functions of the uterus may be helpful to you.

The uterus is a hormone responsive reproductive sex organ that supports the bladder and the bowel. The vagina is shortened when a hysterectomy is performed, and women who experience uterine orgasm cannot experience it without a uterus. Women who have only their uterus removed have a three times greater incidence of heart disease. When the ovaries are removed the incidence of heart disease is 7 times greater.

There is a 12-minute video: Female Anatomy: the Functions of the Female Organs that will give you information you may want to discuss with your doctor before signing a Hysterectomy Consent form. This is a surgery with serious, permanent consequences. If you are not in a life-threatening emergency you may want to take your time and gather more information before making this irreversible decision.

You can view and download the video at www.hersfoundation.org/anatomy