Prevalence of hysterectomy in Ireland

Objectives: To assess factors influencing the prevalence of hysterectomy in ireland. Methods: Analysis of results of a questionnaire completed by a po pulation-based cohort of 17735 women aged 50-65 years attending for breast screening. Results: Prevalence of hysterectomy was 22.2%, was increased in proportion to parity and was higher in younger women, those who had previou sly used oral contraception and those who had private health insurance; pea k age at operation was 45-49 years. Conclusion: The relatively high prevale nce parity reflects contraceptive practices and utilization of health servi ce resources. (C) 2000 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetric s.