Sex - Libido and Sexual Activities After Hysterectomy - Hystersisters Hysterectomy Article

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Sex - Libido and Sexual Activities After Hysterectomy

Sex - Libido and Sexual Activities After Hysterectomy

From the Post-Op Hysterectomy Articles List

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Pre-Op Hysterectomy
Post-Op Hysterectomy
Hormone and Menopause
Intimacy after Hysterectomy
Pelvic Floor
Fitness after Hysterectomy
GYN Cancer
Grief and Loss
Endometriosis
Uterine Fibroids
Hysterectomy Stories
Ask A Doctor

My libido is going nuts. I am 3 weeks post op from my hysterectomy and I have a libido that will not stop. What causes this and what are my choices?

It's very common for libido to surge in the early weeks after our surgery due to changes in the balance of hormones in the body. However, it's equally common for sex drive to take a nose dive right around the time we're getting our doctor's OK for intercourse.

This is because whatever hormones the body had stored prior to the surgery have been depleted. At that point, our libido is at the mercy of whatever HRT we are using; or, for those of us who kept our ovaries, how well they are working, since their blood supply is compromised when the uterus is removed.

So, for those of us who had our ovaries removed, during those first six weeks the main objective of hormone replacement therapy is to try to keep the hot flashes and night sweats at bay so we can get some sleep and let our bodies heal. Then, after the post op fluctuations have abated, we can turn our attention to adjusting our HRT to make sure we still have a healthy libido.

In addition, it's worth noting that because of both hormonal factors and emotional issues associated with the surgery, intercourse may not be all we hope it to be that *first time* after the doctor gives the 'OK'. Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort and may require the use of either a good lubricant, such as Astroglide or KY Silk-e, or some vaginal estrogen to help us produce our own lubricant the way we did prior to the surgery, or both.

For those who had TVH's or LAVH's and/or A&P repairs, there can still be some swelling and tenderness even as far as six weeks post op, so we need to take things slowly and gently until we see whether penetration will be comfortable or not.

Also, having this surgery can sometimes bring up all kinds of difficult emotions to the surface, both in us and in our partners, and that can result in some tension around sex, especially the first few times.

Finally, for those who had vaginal surgeries, sometimes nerves are cut during the surgery and it can take time for them to regenerate (which they usually can), so sensation may initially not be too great but may gradually improve as time passes and the injured tissues heal.

So, try not to have unrealistic expectations of how intercourse will feel the first time after the surgery. Some women find it feels terrific right away (especially those for whom sex was very painful before their surgery), while others may require some time. Just don't be disappointed if it isn't everything you expect... it can get better as time passes and with 'practice'

If your doctor has not been crystal clear about what is allowed and not allowed during the early post op period, please don't hesitate to ask him or her. For example, many if not most doctors will say no to oral sex because of the possibility of bacteria from the mouth entering the vagina and causing infection. Occasionally, though, doctors have said it's OK if mouthwash is used right beforehand, or it's OK if a dental dam is used. ASK. Yes, you might feel embarassed, but they have heard it all before, many times.

For those whose partners have made them feel guilty for "depriving" them, please don't give in. In the first place, anyone who would encourage their partner to disobey their doctor's orders and risk infection or injury for the sake of a few moments of gratification is not being a caring, supportive partner.

Secondly, if their need is so *dire* they can always "take matters into their own hands" so to speak. And finally, sexual relations are supposed to be an expression of love and caring undertaken by mutual consent. Guilt has no place in that whatsoever. Please believe that your partner will not explode if you do not have intercourse before your doctor gives the okay. And as some have said previously, waiting can make it all the more enjoyable when it does happen.

It is understandable that the temptation is very great during those early weeks. As you've heard in some of the preceding examples, whatever pleasure you might get from going against your doctor's instructions is not worth the risks you could be taking.

You and your partner have the rest of your lives to enjoy each other. Make sure you get a healthy start on that by following your doctor's orders.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.

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The Great Binder Set - We have made it very easy for you and combined the two best binders and the Silky Sac into a great set to save you money! Our favorite is the Perfect Pocket binder with cold/hot packs!
Deluxe Hyst Prep Set - As you plan, we've gathered the best products into one set for special pricing.
Post-Op Panty - These great panties speed recovery, and reduces scarring. They contain a medical-grade silicone panel over incision to reduce scar's apperance while they provide support to weakened muscles and tissues from surgery. Excellent!
Softest Bra Ever - When you want to wear something, but feel nothing. This is the softest bra ever, in microfiber with no hardware or tags to chafe or dig! The comfort-ribbed underband stays in place gently, so it is perfect for sleeping and lounging.
HysterSisters Accessory Kit - Are you a HysterSisters fan? This set has a fun collection of HysterSisters items.
Very Private Moisture - Once your doctor gives you the green light for intimacy, this is the stuff! This is a best selling product with a high rate of permanent, satisfied, repeat customers! Relieves vaginal dryness instantly, protects tissue & enhances intimacy. "Buy it for the problem, use it for the pleasure."

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Find A Doctor Near You

Molly Senokozlieff, M.D. 9279 A Medical Plaza Dr. North Charleston SC 29406 843-569-2900	Megan Daw, M.D. Western Carolina Women's Specialty Center 2100 Ridgefield Blvd Asheville NC 28806 828-670-5665	Elizabeth Stevenson-Gargiulo, M.D. 9101 North Central Expressway Suite 250 Dallas TX 75231 214-826-2979
Jennifer Hayes, M.D. Visionary Centre for Women 2695 Ulmerton Rd Clearwater FL 33762 727-540-0414	Debra Richardson, M.D. Gynecological Oncology Clinic - SW Med 2201 Inwood Road Suite 106 Dallas TX 75390 214-645-4673	Stephen Zweibach, M.D. 815 S Parsons Ave Brandon FL 33511 8135712777
Jon Nielsen, M.D. 9825 Hospital Dr. Suite 205 Maple Grove MN 55369 763-587-7050	Kimberly Newman, M.D. 10030 Edison Square Drive Suite 100A Concord NC 28027 704-403-7670	Megan Bird, M.D. 364 SE 8th Ave, Suite 205 Hillsboro OR 97202 503-681-4145

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