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Does hysterectomy affect genital sensation?
Lior Lowenstein1, David Yarnitsky, Ilan Gruenwald
1Department of Obstertrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center and Faculty of medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel. l_lior@rambam.health.gov.il
Summary
Hysterectomy significantly reduces vaginal sensation but preserves clitoral sensation, impacting sexual function in a minority of women. This suggests clitoral sensation is more vital for sexual satisfaction post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Neuroscience
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Hysterectomy is a common gynecological procedure.
- The impact of hysterectomy on female sexual function and genital sensation requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in vaginal and clitoral sensory perception following hysterectomy.
- To assess the long-term effects of hysterectomy on sexual function.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative sensory testing (warm, cold, vibratory) of the vagina and clitoris was performed pre- and post-surgery.
- A follow-up survey assessed sexual function 18 months after hysterectomy.
Main Results:
- Significant decline in vaginal sensation (cold, warm) observed post-hysterectomy.
- Clitoral sensation (thermal, vibratory) remained unchanged.
- Most patients (17/22) reported no decline in sexual function; a minority (4/22) experienced decreased genital sensation and sexual function.
Conclusions:
- Hysterectomy leads to measurable sensory loss in the vagina, but clitoral sensation is preserved.
- Clitoral sensation appears more critical for sexual function than vaginal sensation after hysterectomy.
- While vaginal sensation may decrease, most women do not report a significant decline in sexual function.
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