A hysterectomy is major surgery to remove all or part of the uterus, often with the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, to treat conditions like heavy bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, prolapse, or cancer, stopping periods and preventing pregnancy; it's done via vaginal, abdominal, laparoscopic, or robotic methods, with recovery taking weeks and potentially causing menopause if ovaries are removed.