A hysterectomy is a surgical removal of the uterus, resulting in the inability to become pregnant (sterility). It may be done through the abdomen or the vagina.

Indications
hysterectomy may be recommended for:
tumors in the uterus
uterine fibroids
cancer of the endometrium (uterine lining) or uterine wall
cancer of the cervix or severe cervical dysplasia (a precancerous condition of the cervix)
cancer of the ovary
severe, long-term (chronic) pelvic pain

risks
risks for any anesthesia are:
reactions to medications
problems breathing

risks for any surgery are:
bleeding
infection

other risks that can occur during hysterectomy include:
injury to the bladder or ureters
injury to bowel

edit