Does Hysterectomy Affect a Woman’s Libido?
During a hysterectomy the uterus is removed by the surgeon. There are several types of treatment that can be tried before the surgery is recommended, as a final approach. There are different types of hysterectomy performed for different conditions so you might just have your uterus removed, but ovaries, tubes and cervix may also be taken.
While there are many reasons why a hysterectomy is indicated, the most common is painful heavy periods in a woman who has finished having children. Other diagnoses may be cancer, pregnancy or childbirth difficulties, prolapse, endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Ask the doctor for the reasons he has recommended a hysterectomy.
The two methods of performing the surgery are vaginal and abdominal. Recovery is usually faster and less painful with a vaginal procedure because it doesn’t involve an incision and stitches. Not all women are candidates for this method; it depends on the reason the surgery is required, the age and general health of the patient.
You can expect to have some post-operative pain and discomfort, especially after an abdominal hysterectomy. Pain relief is given in hospital and you will possibly have a catheter in place for a day or two to drain urine away.
You will be kept in bed for the first day and then encouraged to walk around a little each day. This light walking is to reduce the risk of clots forming in the blood vessels of the legs. Patients who have had a vaginal procedure stay in hospital for about 3 or 4 days whereas those who have had abdominal surgery stay for 6 to 7 days.
You will continue your recovery at home for 6 to 8 weeks so that your body can heal and you can regain your strength. During this time, you should rest and lifting, stretching and heavy housework.
You can expect some symptoms during your recovery. Speak to the doctor if the normal vaginal discharge or bleeding continues for more than two weeks. Menopause symptoms are not uncommon after having had a hysterectomy, but they should ease after a few days. Menopause symptoms include things like crying, confusion, sweats, hot flashes and feeling anxious. In cases where the symptoms don’t go away, doctors may prescribe some hormone replacement therapy to alleviate the discomfort.
Many women are worried about how a hysterectomy will affect their sex drive but most women report an improvement in this area. However, if your ovaries have been removed, you may experience vaginal dryness, which can be helped by using a vaginal lubricant or taking estrogen. You will be advised to avoid sex for around six weeks after your surgery, because the body needs this time to heal properly.
Many younger women feel a sense of loss after their hysterectomy and may have other emotional issues. Because the majority of women feel so much stronger these few symptoms quickly fade. You doctor will be able to help you deal with any lasting issues. The internet can provide more information on after hysterectomy, Total Abdominal Hysterectomy and Radical Hysterectomy.
You need to get more active a few weeks after surgery by taking short walks each day. Start slowly and increase the distance you walk gradually. Recovery periods can be a bit boring so the exercise will give you something to do as well as helping your recovery. You will need the full recovery time so it is important not to push yourself to recover sooner.
Your doctor should be consulted for all medical advise