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The Effect of Hysterectomy on Sexual Response and Sexual Identity |
by:
James Brann, MD |
Women have mixed emotions regardingeffect of hysterectomy on sexual response and sexual identity. Most woman go on to havenormal sex life, some haveheightened response, while others are less able to havesexual response following hysterectomy due to their perceived loss of femininity.
Some women may noticechange in their sexual response afteruterus has been removed. For example, uterine contractionswoman might have associated with orgasm may no longer be perceived. Other women may experienceheightened response. This may be due tofact that they no longer have to worry about getting pregnant and no longer have tremendous pain or dysfunctional bleeding.
Ifovaries are not removed,outer genitals andvagina are not affected and remain lubricated whenwoman is sexually aroused. Ifovaries are removed attime of hysterectomy, vaginal dryness may beproblem during sexual intercourse. Vaginal dryness can be helped withuse of estrogen cream.
Duringhysterectomy your doctor removes vaginal tissue. This may makevagina shorter. Deep thrusting during intercourse may be painful. Changing positions during intercourse may help, such as being on top or bringing your legs closer together.
Recently interest in supracervical hysterectomies (wherecervix is not removed at time of hysterectomy) has grown out of speculation that women might enjoy better sexual function after hysterectomy whencervix is left in place. A new study has found there is no difference in sexual function or quality of life whensupracervical hysterectomy is performed instead oftotal abdominal hysterectomy.
Post hysterectomy depression may interfere with sexual response. Depression may followhysterectomy fromconcept that femininity andintact functioning uterus are one. Some women link their self-image with reproductive ability. Menses remindswoman of her uniqueness where hysterectomy takes away this cue. Many women havebrief emotional reaction toloss ofuterus and ovaries that erodes their sense of well-being and femininity. Ifproblem persists please discuss your feelings with your doctor.
Be sure if you are consideringhysterectomy you discuss your personal health and medical history with your doctor. He or she will help you decide what procedures are best for you given your personal condition. Many women find this procedure helpful to their overall health and well-being, especially if they are at risk for certain cancers or other debilitating health conditions.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com
Aboutauthor:
Dr. James Brann isboard certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist andFellow ofAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He is alsoEditor of Women's Healthcare Topicsinformation source for all women.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/hysterectomy.htm”
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com
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