how will it effect me???

I am scheduled to have a hysterectomy in just a few short weeks and I am terrified of how it will effect me sexually....

I was diagnosed with cervical cancer a few days ago (didn't come as a big surprise) and I feel like the doctors are moving at warp speed. I always knew the day would come where I would need a hysterectomy and I always thought I would be at peace when it did but I find myself hyperventilating now that its here. I realize its what needs to be done but what will happen after???? I believe they will leave my ovaries but I am terrified the hysterectomy will negatively impact my sex life with my wonderful husband. I am at a loss here. My husband is a FANTASTIC man but I don't know that he will understand if this dwindles my sex drive/pleasure. He has been dealing with a lot of stress due to a spinal cord injury and I don't want to take this last piece of his "manhood" away. His injury makes our sexual relations difficult at times (its a very fresh injury.. 2 and a half months) but we are making it work. If he can't please me sexually I feel as if it will destroy him. Anyone have any words of wisdom? Am I just being paranoid? Does a hysterectomy only effect sex drive if the ovaries are removed??

Your worries are understandable. I had the same worries before my surgery, and I still do. I will say that from the people I personally know that have had a hysterectomy, they all say sex got better after. I know 5 people. I've read a lot online about women having problems, but if you think about it, you see more stories about difficulties because people having problems are online looking for either A. Answers B. People going through the same thing to know theyre not alone or C. Solutions or all 3. People who are having a normal, healthy sex life after surgery aren't as likely to be online posting about it. They're satisfied with their outcome, so they're off enjoying it. Of course you do read stories of women still who have had a huge change for the better, but you're more likely to read the horror stories. On this site its a mix of outcomes. A lot of women who are enjoying their sex life and things are great still come just to offer support, encouragement, and hope. In my opinion, I think there are a lot more women with good outcome than we think. Nobody can tell you how you personally will be doing post-op.

All that said, try not to focus on the what ifs. Remember that you were diagnosed with cancer and you need the surgery so that hopefully you can live a long healthy life. Your husband would chose that over a sex life I'm sure. After surgery when you're cleared to have sex, just take it slow, be patient, remember that nerves will probably get in the way and have an effect on how it feels, but I'm sure in time with trial and error, things should be ok. Stress plays a major role in all aspects of life, so try to relax when the time comes and think positive.
My prayers to you.