The effect of hysterectomy on sexual functioning

The effect of hysterectomy on sexual function is an issue of debate. There are reasons to believe that removal of the uterus can have adverse effects on female sexual functioning by disrupting the anatomical relations in the pelvis. In this article, we review the literature on the impact of hysterectomy (without oophorectomy and for benign conditions) on the sexual functioning of premenopausal women. There is evidence that women for whom there is a clinical indication for hysterectomy are often experiencing a decreased quality of life. After successful treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, either by hysterectomy or uterus-saving alternatives, the majority of women report experiencing improved sexual functioning. Nonetheless, the research on the effect of hysterectomy on female sexual functioning is not conclusive. Prehysterectomy sexual functioning and psychosocial state are significant predictors for posthysterectomy sexual dysfunction and depression. A minority of women report developing sexual dysfunctions as a result of hysterectomy. The nature and extent of these dysfunctions have not been adequately investigated. Many investigations in this area are flawed by methodological imperfections. For example, qualitative changes in sexual functioning and changes in the physiology of sexual function often were not adequately addressed. In the future, researchers should include both objective measures of physiological functioning and use standardized and validated self-report questionnaires. A critical attitude towards the indications of hysterectomy remains mandatory.