Hysterectomy and sexual wellbeing: prospective observational study of vaginal hysterectomy, subtotal abdominal hysterectomy, and total abdominal hysterectomy.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effects of vaginal hysterectomy, subtotal abdominal hysterectomy, and total abdominal hysterectomy on sexual wellbeing.


METHODS
Prospective observational study over six months.


METHODS
13 teaching and non-teaching hospitals in the Netherlands.


METHODS
413 women who underwent hysterectomy for benign disease other than symptomatic prolapse of the uterus and endometriosis.


METHODS
Reported sexual pleasure, sexual activity, and bothersome sexual problems.


RESULTS
Sexual pleasure significantly improved in all patients, independent of the type of hysterectomy. The prevalence of one or more bothersome sexual problems six months after vaginal hysterectomy, subtotal abdominal hysterectomy, and total abdominal hysterectomy was 43% (38/89), 41% (31/76), and 39% (57/145), respectively (chi2 test, P = 0.88).


CONCLUSIONS
Sexual pleasure improves after vaginal hysterectomy, subtotal abdominal hysterectomy, and total abdominal hysterectomy. The persistence and development of bothersome problems during sexual activity were similar for all three techniques.
Roovers
Jan-Paul W R
JP
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands. j_proovers@hotmail.com
van der Bom
Johanna G
JG
van der Vaart
C Huub
CH
Heintz
A Peter M
AP
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology*; D007045:Hysterectomy, Vaginal / Q000523:psychology; D007989:Libido; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011184:Postoperative Period; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires