What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to detach the uterus from the female body. It is of different types, and which type is chosen to pursue depends on factors like the uterus size and shape and the cause of the surgery. After a hysterectomy, a woman becomes incapable of conceiving and bearing a child; and the menstrual cycle, including menstruation, also gets discontinued permanently. The various hysterectomy types are:
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Vaginal Hysterectomy: The uterus is eliminated through the vagina.
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Abdominal Hysterectomy: The uterus is removed across an abdominal incision.
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Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: The uterus is taken off via a small scope with smaller incisions.
What Are the Effects of Hysterectomy on a Woman’s Sexual Life?
The advantages of hysterectomy are well known, yet its effects on sexual functioning and vaginal length are still under consideration. Hysterectomy influences each woman differently. For certain women, it could boost their sexual life, as they do not feel pain during intercourse post-hysterectomy. While others may feel the loss of femininity and a part of their self-image missing. Moderate feelings that lie in between the two are considered normal.
Some women also feel pleasure due to more free and safe intercourse after a hysterectomy pertaining to birth control. Not having the need to gulp down hormonal birth control pills. or using condoms during sex also improves sensations and even orgasms in a few.
What Precautions to Take After a Hysterectomy?
One of the most frequently asked questions post-hysterectomy is, “When can one have sex after a hysterectomy?” The reply from most doctors comes as to wait for at least six weeks after the surgery to involve in sexual intercourse. This duration decreases the chances of post-surgical infections and provides sufficient time for the body to heal. Though sometimes, there may be a few incidences of post-intercourse bleeding. However, a doctor’s consultation is necessary to look for surgical complications in such cases.
It is essential for all women to procrastinate prior to getting comfortable in their sexual lives again following the surgery. Conversations with the doctor and the partner about one’s feelings aid in dealing with the issues, particularly in vaginal dryness cases; the doctor may advise vaginal estrogen creams, tablets, rings, or silicone-based lubricants for less painful intercourse.
The key to a happy sexual life after a hysterectomy lies in honest discussions with the partner about several good and bad feelings and trying to discover comfortable options together. Couples may also consult a sex therapist or counselor to delve into other sexual choices upon restarting their sex life.
Besides intercourse, other activities to avoid following a hysterectomy include refraining from inserting anything into the vagina, such as fingers, sex toys, tampons, etc. In patients with vaginal hysterectomy, some vaginal bleeding and discharge may be noticed succeeding the procedure. However, care should be taken to shun tampons and choose sanitary napkins instead. Also, stick to the doctor’s aftercare instructions carefully.
Do Women Achieve Orgasm After a Hysterectomy?
Discarding the complications and some temporary unavoidable side effects, intercourse after a hysterectomy usually becomes more enjoyable and safe for most women. Gaining orgasm after a hysterectomy depends on the patient herself. Both vaginal and abdominal hysterectomies allow experiencing a vaginal (G-spot) or clitoral orgasm or those in which the cervix is removed. However, resuming a fulfilling sex life can be done after complete healing.
As the vagina is one of the muscular organs, having the potential to expand and contract, so, a hysterectomy does not alter its elasticity. However, when the cervix is removed, the vaginal length decreases, influencing the partner’s penetration depth. Therefore, sexual intercourse post-hysterectomy may appear different, but it becomes safer after complete recovery. Kegel exercises are a helpful tool in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and improving sexual experiences.
The patient’s mental state also impacts the ability to achieve orgasm, particularly with depression and anxiety. So, focusing on mental health reaps benefits as well. However, if difficulty in orgasm persists after recovery, consult a therapist to discuss sexual inhibition and its associated feelings.
Does a Hysterectomy Have an Effect on a Woman’s Sex Drive?
The libido of a woman gets affected after a hysterectomy. It might either increase or decrease, varying according to the etiology of the surgery. In cases of uterine fibroids or polyps, which are the reasons for painful intercourse, a notable decrease in discomfort is seen during sex after a hysterectomy. In addition, relief from other medical issues increases the sex drive. However, certain females may be less interested in sex post-hysterectomy, probably due to post-surgical depression or because of pain and discomfort following it.
In certain women, ovaries are eliminated along with the uterus, leading to menopause and its related manifestations. This can turn into initiating decreased sex drive. However, with the help of a licensed sex therapist and a doctor, it can be managed well. Mingling and sharing experiences with other hysterectomy patients through personal therapy or group sessions also aid in regaining the appropriate sex drive. Adequate and effective treatment significantly improves sex drive by restoring general health, well-being, and overall energy.
How to Improve Sexual Life After a Hysterectomy?
A plethora of methods and techniques can be utilized to battle poor mental health and low libido post-hysterectomy. Along with the treatment options mentioned above, consuming a healthy and balanced diet and working out regularly markedly boosts the overall mood naturally. It also renders feelings of healing and betterment, lifting self-confidence, thus, craving physical intimacy and having a satisfied sexual life. Moreover, after a hysterectomy, lubricants use and Kegel muscle drills improve sexual experiences.
Conclusion:
Hysterectomy produces remarkable changes in women’s sexual life, impacting the couples’ sex life as well. However, sexual intercourse can still be very pleasurable for both partners. All it needs are understanding, patience, and a little preparation for the duo. Additionally, if the hysterectomy relieves a woman from a painful medical condition, then the reasons to celebrate are even more.
