LentiniHaving your uterus removed can affect your sex after a hysterectomy, both physically and mentally. In this article, we’ll explain how and when you can enjoy sex after a hysterectomy and perhaps even take it to the next level.
What to expect from a hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is considered a relatively major procedure that removes the uterus and ovaries. The procedure is performed in two ways – either vaginally or abdominally. In a vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus is separated from the fallopian tubes and vagina and removed through the vagina. In an abdominal hysterectomy, on the other hand, surgeons remove the uterus through a small incision in the lower abdomen.
Both procedures are performed as inpatient procedures in a hospital, and follow-up care includes plenty of rest and relaxation to prevent heavy bleeding. With a vaginal hysterectomy, recovery time is shorter because the muscles of your abdomen are not cut. In fact, your doctor may discharge you home the very next day, if not the same day as your procedure.
How a hysterectomy affects your sex life
For some women, a hysterectomy can bring benefits to their sex life because they can no longer feel pain during intercourse due to the missing cervix. For other women, the emotional pressure can make sex difficult at first. Both experiences, and everything in between, are completely normal and okay! The important thing is to take your time and not do anything that makes you uncomfortable.
This is how long you should abstain from sex after a hysterectomy
Most doctors recommend that women wait six weeks to have sex after surgery. This reduces the risk of infection and gives your body time to recover.
Sexual intercourse is not the only thing you should avoid after a hysterectomy. Doctors recommend not inserting anything into the vagina, including fingers, sex toys, or tampons. Vaginal hysterectomy patients may experience bleeding and vaginal discharge after the procedure. So you should avoid tampons and use pads instead. Make sure you follow your doctor’s instructions.
Can you still have an orgasm after a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy can not only relieve many symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, but also improve your sex. Whether you can have an orgasm after a hysterectomy depends largely on you. Even a hysterectomy that removed the cervix won’t prevent you from experiencing a vaginal (G-spot) or clitoral orgasm.
In most cases, you can return to an active, fulfilling sex life after complete recovery. Because your vagina is a muscular organ that can expand and contract, surgery will not change it. However, if your cervix was removed, your vagina might be a little shorter. Ultimately, sex may feel different after a hysterectomy, but is perfectly safe once you’ve recovered.
Remember that your own mental state can sometimes affect your ability to have an orgasm, especially if you are anxious and not feeling well. If you are having trouble orgasming after your hysterectomy and are stuck on your own, you should talk to a therapist to work through these feelings and sexual inhibitions.
Conclusion
Sex after a hysterectomy can still be very pleasurable for you and your partner with understanding and a little patience, and may even be better than ever before. And if you are one of the many women who have been relieved of a painful period by a hysterectomy, you have even more reason to be happy about a happier, healthier you!
