Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed from the female body. People have concerns as hysterectomy could potentially lead to reduced sex drive. But the question is, how can women overcome low libido after a hysterectomy?
What is hysterectomy? It is not just an ordinary procedure. It is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the uterus. Hysterectomy may also involve the removal of other attached organs like cervix, ovaries, and the fallopian tubes. Doctors usually consider this procedure as a last resort in the case of noncancerous conditions. As such, if your doctor has suggested that it is the only hope to get rid of your pain, you just have to gather all the courage in the world and embrace it.
There are several reasons why a doctor would recommend hysterectomy namely;
- The presence of uterine fibroids leads to unbearable pain, bleeding, and several other problems.
- Cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
- Endometriosis – it is a condition where the tissue of the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
- Prolapse of the uterus – where the uterus moves from its normal position and sits in the vaginal canal.
- Thickening of the uterus, also known as adenomyosis.
- Extreme pelvic pain as well as abnormal bleeding from the vagina.
Some women take almost forever to agree to undergo it, even when their doctors have said it is the only way out of certain health problems such as uterine fibroids. For such women, the proposition of this type of surgery brings them sadness as they view it as an end to their fertility. On the other hand, a good number are excited to undergo the procedure to end their pain. Others are glad they will no longer have to worry about contraception or dread painful menses every month. Another factor which works as a detriment is the after-effects of the surgery which may last for a long time in certain women.
Nevertheless, the two groups of women have one thing in common – they are afraid of losing their sex drive after hysterectomy. Are they justified to feel this way? Does hysterectomy really cause low libido? The answer is yes – to a large extent. The level at which the person might get affected also depends on the type of surgery she has undergone and to what extent the uterus or the ovaries have been reoriented. Women who undergo total hysterectomy risk losing approximately 50 percent of their sex drive. This is mainly because; half of a woman’s testosterone (hormones responsible for raising libido especially around ovulation) is produced in the ovaries. Now, how do you ensure that your sex drive remains in check after hysterectomy?
A woman’s sex drive after hysterectomy can be restored through the administration of testosterone treatments. Although Testosterone is not the primary sex hormone in women and is found in very less quantity in female bodies, it is extremely important owing to the fact that testosterone plays a vital role in the growth and maintenance of female reproductive tissues. Also known as the sex hormone, testosterone is known to improve sex drive and a couple of sexual problems in women with sexual dysfunction. Since the long-term safety of testosterone therapy for women is yet to be established, some doctors usually hesitate to recommend it. Those who prescribe it mostly do so after ensuring that their female patients have enough levels of estrogen.
In many instances, doctors resort to testosterone therapy under the following circumstances;
- A woman suffers from depression, fatigue or reduced libido after undergoing surgically-induced menopause – in cases where estrogen therapy has failed to alleviate these symptoms
- A postmenopausal woman who is under estrogen therapy continues to experience a low sex drive, and there is no determinable cause.
Testosterone therapy comes in the form of creams, patches, pills or gels. Note that each of these methods is associated with particular risks. As such, it is imperative that you discuss the advantages and disadvantages of all of them with your doctor before administration.
Who shouldn’t take or use testosterone therapy?
- Women who have or have had uterine or breast cancer
- Women with heart conditions
- Women with high cholesterol
- Women with liver disease
There lacks sufficient evidence that supports the effectiveness of testosterone as far as alleviating or minimizing menopausal symptoms is concerned. However, for women who have undergone a total hysterectomy, or those whose ovaries are no longer functional, administration of testosterone alongside estrogen therapy has proved useful in increasing sex drive. Many women with reduced libido respond well to testosterone therapy and even begin to have sexual thoughts and fantasies. They go on to engage in sexual activities and obtain maximum satisfaction.
Just like other treatments, testosterone is associated with several side effects such as deepening of the voice, hair growth in the face and chest and acne among numerous others. Some health experts also claim that testosterone treatments put the user at risk of breast cancer and heart disease, but this hasn’t been proved. Ultimately, the ball is usually in the patient’s court. In my opinion though, as long as the benefits outweigh the risks, it doesn’t hurt trying to bring back the lost sex drive.
Preparing for hysterectomy
Adequate preparation for the surgery is imperative to ensure not only a successful surgery but also timely recovery. Your doctor will advise you accordingly ahead of time. Some of the things he/she will mention include;
- Speak with your employer about some time off work.
- Stop smoking. Too much drinking should be checked as well.
- If you are overweight, lose some weight.
- Let your surgeon know all the medications you are currently taking including past medication history.
- Any pre-existing health condition should be managed appropriately with the consultation of your doctor.
- Prepare mentally for post-surgery complications.
- Talk to women who have undergone hysterectomy procedure. Gather information about the dos and don’ts because who better to ask than someone with first-hand experience.
To conclude, we provided basic tips to help men improve low libido problems after a hysterectomy. There is a hope that these tips can help men recover quickly and can have a positive impact on their libidos.
Ask Us Questions Related To How To Improve Low Libido After A Hysterectomy?
Does hysterectomy affect sex drive?
Hysterectomy does not affect sex drive in the long run. But you might face the problem of low sex drive immediately after the surgery. It may take a few months before getting back to normal. However, it depends on how each individual and their hormonal cycle react to the surgery.
How long should one wait after the surgery?
You should wait at least six weeks before getting involved in vaginal intercourse. You may get intimate in other forms but refrain from inserting anything like a finger, tampons, sex toys, or pennies in your vagina for the time. Normally, women take around 6-8 weeks for healing. However, it depends on the individual healing period. You can try having sexual intercourse after this waiting period.
Is it normal to have low libido after hysterectomy?
It is normal to have no interest in sex for a few weeks after the surgery because of pain and discomfort. Moreover, it is advised to not engage in any vaginal sexual activity at least for 6 to 8 weeks after the surgery as it is considered the healing period. Apart from this, it takes time for your hormonal cycle to get back to normal affecting your sex drive.
How can you improve a low sex drive after hysterectomy?
This surgery basically affects the level of testosterone in one’s body. With low testosterone levels, also considered as the hormones responsible for high sex drive, it is very common to feel less aroused and interested in the act. The best way to overcome this problem is by taking supplements that include these hormones. The bioidentical testosterone will help to restore the hormonal levels in your body, which will help you in the bed. Apart from this, using female libido enhancers like including aphrodisiac foods and sex toys can also help with improving sex drive.
Can A Hysterectomy Cause Loss Of Libido?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure in which the uterus is removed. It is a common procedure, with approximately 600,000 performed in the United States each year. While it is often necessary for medical reasons, such as treating uterine cancer or severe uterine infections, it can also be performed as a form of contraception or to treat gynecological conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids. However, one potential side effect that many women are concerned about is the impact of a hysterectomy on their libido. Can a hysterectomy really cause a loss of libido? In this paper, we will explore the possible connection between a hysterectomy and a decrease in sexual desire.
Firstly, it is important to understand the anatomy of the female reproductive system and how it relates to sexual desire. The uterus, also known as the womb, is a major part of the female reproductive system. It is responsible for housing a developing fetus and plays a role in the menstrual cycle. The ovaries produce hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, which are crucial for the regulation of the menstrual cycle and maintaining sexual function. The cervix, located at the lower end of the uterus, also plays a role in sexual arousal and lubrication. Therefore, it is understandable that the removal of the uterus may cause concerns about sexual desire.
There is no clear consensus among medical professionals about the direct impact of a hysterectomy on libido. Some studies have shown that there is a decrease in sexual desire following a hysterectomy, while others have found no significant difference. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who had a hysterectomy with or without removal of the ovaries had a decrease in arousal and sexual desire compared to women who had not undergone a hysterectomy. However, another study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that there was no significant difference in sexual function between women who had a hysterectomy and those who had not.
One possible explanation for the discrepancy in findings is that there are many factors that can influence a woman’s libido, and a hysterectomy may not be the only contributing factor. For example, a woman’s age, relationship status, and overall health can also play a role in her sexual desire. Additionally, the reason for the hysterectomy, such as cancer or chronic pain, can also have an impact on libido. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who had a hysterectomy for cancer had a higher risk of sexual dysfunction compared to women who had a hysterectomy for non-cancer-related reasons.
Another factor to consider is the type of hysterectomy performed. There are different types of hysterectomies, and the procedure itself can vary. In a total hysterectomy, both the uterus and cervix are removed, while in a partial hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed. A radical hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, and nearby tissues, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. The extent of the surgery may impact a woman’s sexual function and desire differently. For example, the removal of the ovaries can result in a decrease in hormone production, which can lead to a decrease in libido.
In addition to the physical effects of the surgery, the emotional impact of a hysterectomy can also have an impact on a woman’s sexual desire. A hysterectomy can be a major life event for many women, and it can bring about feelings of loss, grief, and anxiety. These emotions can have a profound effect on a woman’s mental health and, in turn, her sexual desire.
It is essential to note that while a hysterectomy may cause a temporary decrease in libido, it is not a permanent condition. Many women report a return to their normal level of sexual desire after a period of adjustment. Additionally, there are ways to address and manage the potential impact of a hysterectomy on libido. For example, hormone therapy can be prescribed to help regulate hormone levels and improve sexual function. Counseling and therapy can also be beneficial in addressing any emotional or psychological factors that may be impacting a woman’s libido.
In conclusion, there is no clear-cut answer to the question of whether a hysterectomy can cause a loss of libido. While some studies have shown a decrease in sexual desire following the surgery, others have found no significant difference. Factors such as the type of hysterectomy, the reason for the surgery, and a woman’s overall health and well-being can all play a role in her sexual function and desire. It is essential for women to have open and honest discussions with their healthcare providers about their sexual health before and after a hysterectomy. With proper support and management, the potential impact of a hysterectomy on libido can be mitigated.
