Operating Wombs - More From The Uterine Front

The uterus hit the headlines again today, metaphorically speaking thankfully, as news broke that thousands of women in the UK are having needless hysterectomies for a problem that may not even require surgery.

The problem is Heavy Menstrual Bleeding or (HMB) that can now be treated with new drugs or lasers in certain circumstances. In parts of the country hysterectomies have been cut by up to 64% but once again the difference in NHS standards throughout the country mean in some regions only a 15% decrease has been seen.

Experts are worried by the trend and are calling for an end to the practice. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has put together guidelines for doctors stressing that surgery should be a last resort.

Many women feel they must either suffer in silence - though if they do we would have to ask their partners - or have a hysterectomy, this should not be so. Both women and doctors should be given the means to be properly educated on all possible procedures.

Mike Mikerson of Essex, 36, said, "My wife suffers terribly. And so do I. I was hit with an ironing board just last week, I still can't feel my left arm and my teeth are loose. Anything that can help without resorting to a hysterectomy should be made available."

This puts into context the debate over the recently mooted uterine transplants. Whilst women may be being rendered sterile thanks to unnecessary womb removal the idea of giving a woman a new one should perhaps be placed on the back burner for a while, and surely must not be derided.

The Gekko is appalled that this kind of thing can happen. This is the 21st Century not the dark ages.

by Pete Riddish Science Editor