"In this new, updated version of the groundbreaking book, gynecologist and leading women's health expert Dr. Lauren Streicher who in a direct, clear, and often humorous way reveals the following: what your doctor isn't telling you; what robotic hysterectomy is and why it is becoming so popular; new nonsurgical ways to control heavy bleeding; the latest on hormone therapy, including bioidentical hormones; how to decrease your risk of uterine or ovarian cancer without removing your uterus or ovaries; new methods for treating fibroids; and a comprehensive guide to websites and resources."-- Provided by publisher.

Includes index.

Hysterectomy past and present. The history and politics of hysterectomy ; Anatomy 101 ; Who gets a hysterectomy? Who absolutely needs one? -- Uterine disorders and alternatives to hysterectomy. Fibroids : what, where, and how ; Nonsurgical treatment of fibroids ; Removing fibroids ; Uterine prolapse ; Pain and abnormal bleeding ; Precancerous conditions and cancer -- Surgery and recovery. Abdominal hysterectomy ; Vaginal hysterectomy and treatment of urinary incontinence ; Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted hysterectomy ; Choosing a surgeon ; Anesthetic issues ; Preparing for surgery ; The day of surgery ; Recovering from surgery ; Complications and how to reduce your risk -- Decisions regarding surgery. The cervix decision ; The ovary decision ; Women at genetic risk for gynecologic cancers ; Time for that tummy tuck? Plastic and associated procedures -- Life after hysterectomy. Exercise and other activities ; A word (or two) about hormones ; Alternatives to estrogen therapy ; Sex after hysterectomy ; Pregnancy after hysterectomy ; What I have learned from my patients (and their husbands).