Conclusion
Using nationally representative data from India, this study examined whether early marriage and early childbearing play a role in risk of hysterectomy during later life. By demonstrating a robust link between marriage before the age of 18 years, childbearing by the age of 19 years, and later-life risk of hysterectomy, this study expands the growing literature on the long-term health consequences of girl child marriage and subsequent adolescent childbearing.19-21Taken together, findings from the current study, not only reiterate the ongoing call to prevent child marriage but emphasize the need for secondary and tertiary prevention strategies addressing adequate gynecologic care for women who experienced marriage and/or childbearing at an early age, particularly in low resource settings. Future funding research is warranted to strategize appropriate policies aimed at providing needed healthcare services and support to these women.