A hysterectomy is either the removal of the uterus only, or the full removal of the uterus as well as the ovaries. This is because the removal of the uterus without the ovaries can still affect the levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and androgens.
The uterus is what mediates the hormone levels. Removing it often helps with many aspects of the woman's life. But what about side effects? Will hysterectomy cause any changes to sex?
When Can You Have Sex After Hysterectomy?
In most cases, you may have sex after you allow yourself to heal for a period of 6-8 weeks. It is going to depend on how quickly the inner and outer wounds heal.
The entire uterus and cervix are removed during a hysterectomy, after which the top portion of the vagina is stitched closed. This area needs time to heal, which means that sexual intercourse needs to be put on hold so that it does not tear the stitches out. Plus, intercourse may cause the vagina to become infected due to the multiple bacteria which it may be introduced to.
If the full healing period is not allowed, then there will be consequences such as severe bacterial infections, bleeding, and extreme pain. You may even find that you need to have additional surgery to allow the vaginal area to heal properly.
Will Sex After Hysterectomy Be Affected?
Sometimes. Depending on the type of hysterectomy surgery you undergo, your desires may change. The surgery which removed your ovaries and your uterus will change your sexual desire the most.
Since the uterus is the mediator of most the woman's emotions, it only makes sense that losing the uterus may make you feel as though you are missing a part of yourself. You may even feel a great loss or overwhelming sadness.
All these things lower your sex drive. As you recover, though, you should begin to feel a normal interest in sexual activity again. Eating healthy, getting regular exercise and discussing your feelings with your partner or friends will help improve the recovery process.
How Will Sex After Hysterectomy Be Affected?
Sex will be a quite different experience after hysterectomy, and you may experience the following situations:
1. Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness occurs when a woman loses her ovaries, this can happen due to menopause or a hysterectomy. Without the ovaries, you are not able to produce the amounts of estrogen needed to keep the elasticity in the vaginal wall, which means there will be less blood flow to the area.
2. Painful Sex
Avoid sex if it is painful, and be sure to talk with your doctor.
You may experience pain when your partner's penis enters your vagina or with deep penetration. When the pain occurs as the penis is entering, it is most likely caused by an infection or lack of lubrication.
If there is pain you may find it difficult to relax, creating spasms in the vaginal wall. A vaginal dilator may help relax your muscles so that you can enjoy sex again.
3. Low Sexual Desire
After your hysterectomy you may have less sexual desire. When this happens, know that it will return as you continue to heal. It is also important that you talk to your partner to help both of you through the process.
A lowered sexual desire is caused by depression, menopause, relationship problems, and stress. Most of the time these are temporary, but remember you just had your uterus removed so they may seem worse than they are.
4. Inability to Orgasm
A hysterectomy does not mean that you cannot have an orgasm anymore, but you may find it more difficult. Your vaginal sensations may have changed as your uterus and/or ovaries were removed.
5. Physical Appearance
Your emotions are not as well mediated after a hysterectomy; the shorter or thicker midsection may cause you to become more self-conscious. Other hormonal changes such as thinning hair, graying, or aging of the skin may also cause you to feel less sexually appealing.
6. Menopause
Menopause may naturally lower your sexual desires; having your ovaries removed during a hysterectomy may cause you to enter menopause sooner. The hormone changes may alter your sexual emotions.
Tips for Better Sex After Hysterectomy
Though having your ovaries removed can negatively affect your sexual experience, it doesn't mean you cannot enjoy sex again. There're tips that you can apply to enjoy the pleasure of it.
1. Lubrication
Lubrication will help with vaginal dryness. Try different varieties such as flavored, warming, or regular until you find one that you prefer. Always remember to have fun with it to make the experience better for you and your partner.
2. Stretching
Sometimes you may find that your vagina is too tight. Using a dilator or doing your pelvic floor exercise can help with this. If this is too embarrassing, shop online; do not be afraid to start small and work your way up.
3. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy will replace your lost estrogen and testosterone hormones. It helps lubricate and loosen your vagina while increasing your sexual desires.
4. Know When to Ask for Help
After trying several techniques without results, ask for help. Talk with your obstetrician-gynecologist, general practitioner, or a relationship therapist. There is not any shame in asking for help making your life more enjoyable.