home *** CD-ROM | disk | FTP | other *** search
- $Unique_ID{BRK00392}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Changes in Sexual Desire Following Hysterectomy}
- $Subject{hysterectomy libido sex special procedure procedures Genitourinary
- physical emotional sexual intercourse hormone replacement vaginal secretion
- secretions anxiety lifestyle lifestyles behavior behaviors hysterectomies}
- $Volume{P-14, J-23}
- $Log{
- Hysterectomy*0008600.tid
- Total Hysterectomy*0008601.scf
- Partial Hysterectomy*0008602.scf}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
-
-
- Changes in Sexual Desire Following Hysterectomy
-
-
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
- QUESTION: It's not something I feel I can discuss with my doctor, but a
- recent hysterectomy has brought about some unwanted and unexpected changes in
- my sexual desire. All my previous feelings have changed, and I am afraid I
- have become a wife with a perpetual "headache". Is this a normal result of my
- surgery, or can I be helped?
-
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
- ANSWER: It is neither a "normal result" nor one you have to accept, for help
- was only a conversation away, if you had but consulted with your physician.
- It's not that this situation is unusual, for surgery of this type has both a
- physical as well as an emotional impact upon your life, but there are no
- lasting effects that must discourage you from your normal fulfillment. To be
- sure, intercourse may be painful if wound healing is not complete, and should
- await your follow up visit with your surgeon. Even if you had your ovaries
- removed, hormone replacement can restore normal vaginal secretions. You need
- reassurance and the knowledge that this operation is not the end of your
- sexual life. Many deeply entrenched myths surround this surgery, including
- the one that normal relations are no longer possible. Even husbands may feel
- strange if not afforded the opportunity to express fears and doubts. You both
- need an opportunity to open up and discuss your feelings. Both you and your
- husband are entitled to a real sit down session with your doctor, who can
- provide you with the answers to relieve your anxiety and end your headaches,
- if you will only reveal your problem and request the needed counseling
- session.
-
- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-
-