Upcoming August hysterectomy - Intimacy concerns, removing fibroid

I'm scheduled for a hysterectomy to remove a fibroid connected to the outside of my uterus. It appears to be at or near my c-section scar and is about the same size as my uterus, at 6x4 cm. The dr thinks she can keep save ovaries, but not sure about the cervix. Since I'll likely have my ovaries, I'll still produce hormones - however, will they function the same? I know over time my hormones will decrease and change, but right now I have strong sexual desire during ovulation and wonder if that will remain or change with a hysterectomy even if they save my ovaries? Sexual intimacy is very important and I don't want to risk losing that with my husband, however, I'm also am worn out from the painful menstruation and all the headaches, cramps, muscle tension.
What questions should I be asking my Dr??? Is it better to keep the cervix? How does the vagina stay strong without the cervix?

Hi Lbushhou to HysterSisters!

I am so glad you found this site.

Your ovaries will continue to cycle just as they have always done. They can get a bit sleepy after your uterus is removed, because the blood flow the uterus provided before is gone. Once they become accustomed to this, they should be okay.

Sex is different for everyone after surgery. Here are 10 Concerns about Intimacy after Hysterectomy that may answer questions you have.

Once the cervix is removed, the doctor will create what is called a vaginal cuff where the top of the vagina is sewn together. Think tube sock, and you have a good picture. You do need to let this heal, so you will be restricted from all sexual activity for at least 6 weeks post-op.

Here are articles that address your pre-op appointment:
Making the Most of Your Pre-op Appointments for Hysterectomy
Questions for Your Pre-Op Hysterectomy Appointment

I hope these help.

Can i ask you something like my sister i am very scared about my sexual life after the hysterectomy the OBGYN told me they going to take it out all the uterus and fallopies tubes but we didn't discuss about the cervix i have a history of pre cancer cells in my cervix so i think he want to take it out i read all the information you have about this topic but i just want to know a little more about the vaginal sew can you give me places i can read about that. Thanks

Hi lisy30 -

If your doctor used the terms "total" with hysterectomy, then by definition you are having your cervix removed. Here is a discussion on this: hysterectomy definitions.

I lost everything - uterus, cervix, tubes and ovaries - so I have a vaginal cuff. I have had no issues with it, and DH cannot tell the difference. As I said before, you do have to let it heal. You will be on total pelvic rest for at least 6 weeks, if not longer.

Here are some additional articles I found:
How Will My Vagina Stay in Place after Hysterectomy?
Intimacy after Hysterectomy | Is My Vagina Shorter?


Hopefully these help.

No, the ovaries are most likely not to function the same. They receive majority of blood flow from uterus which will be removed. On average women enter menopause 2 years earlier than would without a surgery. It is not unheard of ovaries to stop functioning within 2-3 years after hysterectomy. Besides uterus is a part of an endocrine system itself. It's removal will have an impact on the hormonal balance.
Yes, sex is likely to be different. It may improve if you are in a major pain right now. Otherwise.... Those really nice orgasms pulsating through your body, this is your uterus contracting. Once it's gone, it's gone.
There is a section on this forum called "Sexual dysfunction" for a very good reason. All of these women were assured that nothing would change in their sex lives or this question was not discussed altogether.
I would never have this surgery for any other reason that I had and it is cancer. I would try everything under the sky to avoid it.
PS A guy can definitely tell the difference. My husband said that if before he could feel "poking" my insides, now its "nothingness". Great, just great.