Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is characterized in ways both physical and emotional/psychiatric. FSD is not only complex in its definition, it seems to become more complicated with the added experience of the woman who has had a hysterectomy with loss of ovaries through removal, chemotherapy, or loss of function (for those retaining ovaries) from the surgical experience.

Sexual dysfunction within the HysterSisters community is observed as a post-op experience, usually many months post-op. It is also noteworthy that experiencing FSD is a surprise to the woman who has experienced a hysterectomy and who was previously enjoying a satisfying sexual relationship with her husband of many years.

Whether a HysterSister is in her 20's or her 60's, the report of distress over sexual dysfunction spans the age brackets. Researchers tell us that about 50% women surveyed feel that a satisfying sexual relationship is important to their quality of life. Distress is reported by those HysterSisters whose Female Sexual Dysfunction has interrupted that enjoyment.

There are four main categories of FSD: