The effect of total hysterectomy on specific sexual sensations

Objective: Assess whether women note a change in aspects of arousal because of removal of the uterus and cervix. Study design: Between 1990 and 1992, 105 women were asked to report on their sexual function before and at 3, 8, and 18 months after undergoing a total hysterectomy. Results were analyzed by χ². Results: Hysterectomies were abdominal or vaginal, and 42% of subjects had ovaries removed and initiated estrogen replacement. Ease of arousal diminished in 24% and improved in 11%. Intensity of orgasms decreased in 15% and increased in 14%. Effects of nipple stimulation were usually preserved. Sexual satisfaction increased significantly. Seven women noted distinctly worse sexual function. Conclusion: An indicated total hysterectomy will likely increase sexual satisfaction and not change the effect of breast stimulation. The few women with disturbingly reduced sexual sensation deserve assessment and treatment.