I received the following email a few weeks ago and have received permission to share it with my blog readers. This is, of course, a girlfriend-to-girlfriend email and as such is NOT in any way a substitute for professional medical advice. It is merely one person's opinion that I feel may help and support those out there facing a hysterectomy – specifically help them open a thorough dialogue with their doctor.
Email received at holly@passionseekers.com on September 8, 2006:
"Saw you this morning on The Today Show and then looked up your site. It's wonderful to discover other women who are looking to improve their marriage and physical relationship with their husbands. Recently, due to my own experience, I've become interested in the negative impact that couples experience after hysterectomy.
I underwent laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH) June 23rd after being hospitalized with a tuboovarian abscess. The surgeon also discovered extensive endometriosis and adhesions in my pelvis. Surgery began at 7:30 a.m. and I was home by 11:30 a.m. (yes, that same morning). Only a handful of surgeons in my area are qualified to perform this particular kind of hysterectomy that removes the ovaries and uterus through small openings in the abdomen. More commonly, surgeons remove the organs, including the cervix, through a traditional open incision or one made in the vaginal wall. My cervix was not removed in order to provide support to the bladder and abdomen. There is also some evidence to suggest the cervix contributes to a woman's sexuality and helps with lubrication. An estrogen patch (Climara) was applied to me right before leaving the OR.
To my surprise, my husband and I were enjoying an active sex life within two weeks of my surgery. In fact, my sexual response has never been this good. I wonder how many women suffer years with unresolved gynecological issues that obviously inhibit their sexuality in marriage. Also, how many women undergo traditional open hysterectomies (or vaginal assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy) that remove the cervix and/or extract the organs through the vagina? I've read that a large number of women report greatly reduced sexual desire and function after a hysterectomy, not to mention the rather long recovery period of 8 to 12 weeks. I was enjoying a second honeymoon in New Orleans (and sightseeing several miles on foot every day) only two weeks post op.
My husband and I just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary August 1 of this year. We have not always enjoyed our sex life mostly due to my lack of desire. Surprisingly, all of this changed dramatically after my operation. Have you heard of anything similar to my experience? Perhaps if more women knew of the LSH surgical option (provided they do not have pathology associated with the cervix and it is deemed safe not to remove it) then more couples could look forward to increased sexual satisfaction in the later years of their marriage. At 47, it is exciting now to finally enjoy this very important aspect of my life and marriage. Sincerely, T. P.”
I very much thank my reader for allowing me to post this email for the benefit of all out there that may be facing a similar situation. As I have always said, we can learn a lot from each other - from the experiences we each have had. This is another example. From this information we may now have another question or two for our doctor or a comment to share about our own experience. In this regard, please share your comments below or please email me at www.passionseekers.com about this or any other “passion” related topic – your opinions and experiences are valuable! Thank you for caring about your fellow Passion Seeker – and may you never forget the continued fun in seeking passion!
