Women have mixed feelings about the impact of hysterectomy on sexual response and gender identity. Most women continue to have normal sex lives, some have an increased response, while others are less able to show a sexual response after hysterectomy due to a perceived decrease in femininity.
Some women may notice a change in their sexual response after the uterus is removed. For example, uterine contractions that a woman may have associated with orgasm may no longer be noticed. Other women may experience an increased reaction. This may be because they no longer have to worry about pregnancy and no longer have tremendous pain or dysfunction.
If the ovaries are not removed, the external genitalia and vagina are not affected and remain lubricated when a woman is sexually aroused. If the ovaries are removed around the time of the hysterectomy, vaginal dryness during sex can be a problem. Vaginal dryness can be helped with the use of an estrogen cream.
Your doctor removes vaginal tissue during a hysterectomy. It can shorten the vagina. A deep thrust during sex can be painful. Changing positions during sex can be helpful eg. When you’re upstairs or your legs come together
Recently, interest in supracervical hysterectomies (where the cervix is not removed at the time of the hysterectomy) has grown from speculation that women might have better sexual function after surgery. hysterectomy if the cervix remains in place. A new study has found that there is no difference in sexual function or quality of life when a supracervical hysterectomy is performed instead of a total abdominal hysterectomy.
Depression after a hysterectomy can affect the sexual response. Depression can follow a hysterectomy with the concept that femininity and an intact uterus are one. Some women combine their self-image with the ability to reproduce. The rules remind a woman of her uniqueness, in which hysterectomy removes this reference. Many women have a brief emotional reaction to the loss of the uterus and ovaries, which affects their well-being and femininity. If the problem persists, please discuss your feelings with your doctor.
If you are considering a hysterectomy, discuss your personal health and medical history with your doctor. He or she will help you decide which procedures are best for you based on your personal condition. Many women find this procedure useful for their overall health and well-being, especially if they are at risk of developing certain types of cancer or other debilitating health problems.