Ovarian cancer: Still possible after hysterectomy?

A total hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and cervix. But cancer can still occur in the ovaries and fallopian tubes of women who have had a hysterectomy.

Women who have had all their reproductive organs removed — including tubes and ovaries — can't develop ovarian cancer. But they can develop cancer in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), which looks and acts like ovarian cancer. Peritoneal cancer can't be detected by a Pap test.

If you've had a hysterectomy, you usually don't need an annual Pap test, which is a screening test for cervical cancer. But you still need regular pelvic exams. Doctors also recommend continued Pap tests for women who have had cervical, vaginal or vulvar cancer before a hysterectomy.