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Hysterectomy: social and psychosexual aspects
1Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Bailliere'S Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Hysterectomy outcomes are confusing due to past research flaws. Recent studies suggest it doesn't cause psychological or sexual issues, but pre-existing psychological disorders remain a concern.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Psychology
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Conflicting conclusions on psychological and sexual outcomes of hysterectomy cause confusion.
- High incidence of hysterectomy worldwide necessitates clear outcome data.
- Methodological limitations in prior research contribute to outcome uncertainty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the psychological and sexual outcomes following hysterectomy.
- To identify risk factors associated with hysterectomy outcomes.
- To emphasize the importance of patient self-evaluation in assessing procedure impact.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies employing prospective designs.
- Utilization of standardized measures for outcome assessment.
- Application of appropriate statistical analyses to interpret data.
Main Results:
- Recent prospective studies do not link hysterectomy to increased psychological or sexual disorders.
- Pre-existing psychological disorders were noted in samples both before and after hysterectomy.
- A clearer understanding of outcomes has emerged from the most recent research.
Conclusions:
- Hysterectomy may not be directly implicated in causing new psychological or sexual disorders.
- Pre-operative psychological health is a significant factor to consider.
- Incorporating women's subjective evaluation is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of hysterectomy's impact.