How does hysterectomy affect your sex life?

Hysterectomy is one of the most common gynecological surgical procedures, in which the uterus is completely or partially removed through the abdomen or vagina. A total hysterectomy is the complete removal of the uterine body and cervix; a subtotal hysterectomy is the removal of the uterine body while preserving the cervix.

Studies have shown that total hysterectomy itself has little effect on the patient's sexual life. About 40% of patients recover as normal as before the operation; only about 25% have a decrease in or obstructed sexual life; and a small number of people who cannot resume their sexual life do so because of postoperative fear or the mistaken belief that they need to abstain from sex after the operation. Some patients worry that they will no longer be women after a hysterectomy and are concerned about having sex. Actually not. Female sexual characteristics are maintained by the secretion of estrogen by the uterus and ovaries. The uterus only plays an important role in the creation of a fetus. For those who do not desire to become pregnant, they can simply have their uterus removed and retain their uterus and ovaries, and still maintain their normal physiological characteristics.

Will hysterectomy surgery affect the length of the vagina and hinder the couple's sexual life? Such concerns are unnecessary, because after a total hysterectomy, the length of the vagina does not change. However, in a general hysterectomy, due to the large scope of the operation, part of the vagina is removed and the length of the vagina may be slightly reduced. However, due to the great flexibility of the female vagina, the operation generally has no impact on the couple's life.

How long will it take to resume sexual intercourse after a total hysterectomy? From a medical point of view, it is best to resume sexual intercourse three months after the operation, because if you have sexual intercourse too early, the vaginal stump is prone to rupture or infection. During the first sexual intercourse after surgery, the private parts and vagina are often not lubricated enough due to nervousness and anxiety, which makes sexual intercourse difficult. At this time, if lubricant is used, good results can be achieved. It is particularly important to note that during the first few times of sexual intercourse after surgery, the movements should be gentle and slow to prevent accidents.