Pregnancy After Partial Hysterectomy: Can I Get Pregnant with a Partial Uterus?

A partial hysterectomy is the removal of only a portion of the uterus. In some cases, the large majority of the uterus is left intact along with ovaries and fallopian tubes. In other cases, only a small portion of the uterus is left and fallopian tubes are removed or cut; ovaries may be left intact. Pregnancy after partial hysterectomy will depend upon the details of the hysterectomy and the length of time after the surgery when pregnancy occurs.

Partial Hysterectomy with Two Intact Ovaries and Fallopian Tubes - Cervix in Place

If a woman undergoes a partial hysterectomy with a large portion of the uterus left behind, she will still be able to conceive as long as ovaries are functioning and fallopian tubes are still connected between the ovaries and uterus. It is important for the uterus to fully heal before attempting to conceive. Initial recovery time is typically six to eight weeks, but scar tissue strong enough to hold up during pregnancy can take much longer to form. The medical term for this type of partial hysterectomy is Supracervical Abdominal Hysterectomy or SAH.

Partial Hysterectomy with One Intact Ovary and Fallopian Tube - Cervix in Place

A small portion of the uterus may be removed along with one ovary and one fallopian tube during a partial hysterectomy. After, pregnancy may be achieved, but the chances are much lower as only one ovary is releasing eggs. Menstrual cycles may also be less frequent depending on the size of the remaining uterus.

Partial Hysterectomy with Intact Ovaries and Fallopian Tubes - Cervix Removed

In some cases, typically due to abnormal pap smear results and pre-cancerous cells, the cervix will be removed along with a large portion of the uterus. The ovaries and fallopian tubes may be left in place. If the cervix is removed, stitches are placed in the upper end of the vaginal, essentially blocking the "inside" from the "outside". Sperm will not be able to make it through the scar tissue that forms at the end of the vagina so pregnancy after partial hysterectomy will be impossible.

It is important for women undergoing a partial hysterectomy to discuss the specific details of the procedure with the doctor before the surgery is performed. If endometriosis is the reason for the partial hysterectomy, the surgery may be postponed and pregnancy may offer temporary relief from symptoms. If tumors, cysts or cancerous lesions are the reason for the partial hysterectomy, immediate surgery may be required.