Since ancient times, the uterus has been associated with something sacred in the female body. After its removal, women feel diminished, as they believe they are sexually incapable of feeling and giving pleasure. Surgery affects women not only biologically, but also sexually, psychologically and socially. Within this context, this research aimed to identify the meaning of hysterectomy for women and the repercussions on their sexual and social lives. This is a descriptive study, carried out by means of a bibliographic review of works published in the CAPES BDENF and LILACS databases, from 2005 to 2015, using the descriptors: Hysterectomy, Sexuality and Nursing. Nine articles were analyzed. The results of the related studies consisted of three themes that identified the meaning of hysterectomy for women: hysterectomy and body image; hysterectomy and sexual activity; hysterectomy and social role. The studies showed the importance of this organ for women and how it interferes with their body image, conception of gender, female, sexual activity and social role.