[The effect of hysterectomy on sexual behavior in women]

To explore the effect of total hysterectomy on sexual behavior in women and to improve the quality of life in posthysterectomic women.

We observed 107 of patients who had received surgery for more than six months. They were divided into 3 groups: 1st group (19 pationts), hysterectomy; 2nd group (18), unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and hysterectomy; and 3rd group (70), bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and hysterectomy. The patients were also divided into groups(< 45 years, 45-50 years, > 50 years) according to age. The difference of sexual behavior before and after hysterectomy was compared and the effect of FSH, E2, T on sexual behavior was also analysed.

Sexual function after hysterectomy was normal in 43.9%, sexual disturbance 26.2%, fear or misunderstanding 17.8%, and no partner or ill partner 12.2%. Sexual function and sexual desire in the < 45 years group was significantly different from other groups (chi 2 = 11.2633, P = 0.0036). The effect of E2 on sexual function and desire was significant (t = 2.18, P = 0.032).

Total hysterectomy affects sexual behavior. It is highly important to advise patients to get rid of psychosomatic disturbances before and after hysterectomy. Since overian function is very important for maintenance of normal sexual function, it is not advisable to do preventive overiotomy. The estrogen level has a great influence on the sexual behavior of women who had hysterectomy, but the role of androgen in women's sexual behavior needs to be studied.