What is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy involves removing the uterus, either along with the cervix (a total hysterectomy) or leaving the cervix in place (a partial, or subtotal, hysterectomy). It is commonly recommended for conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding or, in some cases, gynaecological cancer. Because it ends the ability to become pregnant, it is normally considered once other treatments haven’t worked or aren’t suitable.
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic, using keyhole (laparoscopic) techniques wherever possible, which generally means smaller scars and a faster recovery, or through an open abdominal incision when this is the better option. Conveniently located in St John’s Wood (NW8), we offer this treatment to patients across London with a focus on safety and compassionate care.
Who is a Hysterectomy suitable for?
- Fibroids causing pain, pressure or heavy bleeding
- Endometriosis or adenomyosis that hasn’t responded to other treatments
- Heavy menstrual bleeding not controlled by medication or less invasive procedures
- Chronic pelvic pain linked to a condition of the uterus
- Certain gynaecological conditions, including some cancers, where removal of the uterus is recommended
Your gynaecologist will review your health, symptoms, previous treatments and future plans before recommending whether a hysterectomy is right for you, and which type.
Robotically-assisted Hysterectomy
If you need a hysterectomy, our experienced gynaecological surgeons at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital offer a range of surgical approaches, including robotic-assisted surgery and conventional techniques. Robotic-assisted hysterectomy uses advanced technology to support precise, minimally invasive surgery, which may offer recovery benefits for suitable patients. The best approach will depend on factors such as your medical history, the reason for your hysterectomy and your overall health. Your consultant will guide you through your options and help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
Surgeons in London who perform Hysterectomies
How Much Does A Private Hysterectomy Cost?
from £5,995*
The cost of a private hysterectomy starts from £5,995* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
*The price shown is an estimated guide to the hospital charges associated with your treatment from admission to discharge. Your final cost may vary depending on your individual clinical needs, the procedure performed, any additional treatments required, the type of implant/prosthesis used (where applicable), and the length of stay. This guide price excludes consultation fees, diagnostic tests, and professional fees charged separately by your surgeon, anaesthetist, and any other specialists involved in your care.
|
Total hysterectomy - open technique |
£6,975* |
|---|---|
|
Partial hysterectomy - open technique |
£5,995* |
|
Total hysterectomy - keyhole technique |
£7,495* |
|
Partial hysterectomy - keyhole technique |
£8,275* |
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hysterectomy
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), easily accessible for patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6) and across North and Central London.
By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is a 5-minute walk to and from St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
By Bus: Routes 13, 46 and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station. Routes 139 and 189 stop on Abbey Road.
By Car: Finchley Road and Kilburn High Road provide direct routes from NW3 and NW6.
Rest when you need to, but keep gently active with short, regular walks, which help circulation and recovery. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until your surgeon says it’s safe, usually around six weeks; eat plenty of fibre and drink enough fluids to avoid straining, and follow your wound care instructions. Contact the hospital if you notice heavy bleeding, fever, or increasing pain.
Guide prices start from £5,995* and vary depending on whether you have a total or partial hysterectomy and whether it’s performed using an open or keyhole technique. The pricing table above sets out each option, and your consultant will confirm a personalised quote following your consultation.
A total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix, while a partial (subtotal) hysterectomy removes the main body of the uterus but leaves the cervix in place. Removing the ovaries is a separate decision, and your gynaecologist will talk through which approach is right for you.
A keyhole (laparoscopic) hysterectomy is carried out through a few small incisions using a camera and fine instruments, generally meaning less pain, smaller scars and a faster recovery. An open hysterectomy uses a larger abdominal incision and is sometimes the better option, for example if the uterus is very large. Your surgeon will advise which is most suitable for you.
You’ll have a consultation with your gynaecologist to review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and options, and agree the type of hysterectomy. You may have further tests, and you’ll be given instructions on preparing for surgery, such as dietary changes and any medication adjustments.
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep and pain-free throughout. Your surgeon will use keyhole techniques wherever possible, or an open incision where this is the better option, and you’ll be cared for by an experienced surgical and anaesthetic team.
You’ll be given aftercare instructions covering wound care, medication and signs to watch for, and follow-up appointments will be arranged to check your healing. Most people need to rest and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks, with a gradual return to normal activities as guided by your care team.
If your ovaries are left in place, you usually won’t need it. If they’re removed before you’ve reached the menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be recommended to manage menopausal symptoms and protect your long-term health, and your gynaecologist can advise on this.
Depending on your condition, alternatives may include medication, a hormonal coil, endometrial ablation, or procedures such as fibroid removal (myomectomy) that preserve the uterus. Your gynaecologist will discuss whether any of these are suitable before recommending a hysterectomy.
Medically reviewed by Mr Demetrios Economides - MD FRCOG on 03/05/2024