Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It may also involve removal of the cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes and other surrounding organs. A hysterectomy is usually performed for serious conditions.

Making the decision to have a hysterectomy can be very difficult.

Some women consider the procedure to be one of the best decisions they've ever made, because it can relieve from heavy bleeding, abdominal cramps and bloating, and the opportunity to enjoy sex once again.

This is not the case for everyone. If your ovaries were also removed with hysterectomy, you might be in for a longer recovery, experiencing menopausal symptoms. Other post-surgery symptoms can also become an issue, such as dry eyes, dry skin, short-term memory loss and depression.

Michelle King Robson shares her experience, as well as why is is so very important to be your own health advocate when making this decision.