By Andrea Martin, DNP, CRNP, WHNP, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Virtua Sexual Wellness & Pelvic Health

If you need to have a hysterectomy, you may be concerned about how the surgery could affect your sex life. It’s understandable to be worried, and we want to reassure you that you can have a happy, healthy sex life after surgery.

Here are the most common questions patients have about sex after a hysterectomy—you may be pleasantly surprised by the answers.

How long do I have to wait after a hysterectomy to have sex?

It takes 6 to 8 weeks for a woman to completely heal after surgery, and you may experience some discomfort during your recovery. Because of that, you may not feel like being intimate, or you might welcome the downtime.

How will a hysterectomy affect my sex life going forward?

The uterus is always removed during a hysterectomy. But, depending on the reason for the surgery, the ovaries, cervix, and/or the supporting tissue may also need to be removed. Typically, the ovaries are only removed when necessary, such as when cancerous cells are found.

Since the ovaries produce estrogen and testosterone, their removal can lead to some long-term side effects, including vaginal dryness, tightness, and a decreased interest in sex.

The good news is that there are many options to help alleviate these symptoms. You can discuss solutions with one of Virtua’s women’s health nurse practitioners.

• Lubrication: If dryness is a concern, consider using a lubricant. Many options are available, so don't hesitate to explore and find one that’s enjoyable for you and your partner.
• Stretching: If tightness is an issue, using a vaginal dilator can help. A vaginal dilator can assist in gently opening the vagina. Dilators come in various sizes, so it's best to start with the smallest size and gradually work your way up.
• Hormone replacement: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can replenish the hormones that your ovaries used to produce. There are many options for HRT and bioidentical HRT, available in pills, patches, creams, rings, and pellets. Your healthcare provider can discuss what might work best for you.

Occasionally, women experience pelvic pain or pain with sex after hysterectomy, even when the ovaries aren’t removed. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a great treatment option when this occurs.

Will I still be able to have an orgasm after a hysterectomy?

Yes, you can still experience orgasms after surgery. Up to 85% of women orgasm from clitoral stimulation, which isn’t usually affected by hysterectomy. For individuals who need cervical stimulation for orgasm, removing the cervix during a hysterectomy might make orgasms more difficult or even impossible. It’s important to discuss sexual function with your surgeon before surgery. In some cases, the hysterectomy can be performed, leaving the cervix in place to preserve sexual function.

Having a hysterectomy doesn’t have to mean the end of an enjoyable sex life. Talk to your OB/GYN provider about your concerns and options for symptom relief.

Connect with sexual health experts at Virtua

• Virtua Sexual Wellness and Pelvic Health women’s health nurse practitioners provide specialized physical and emotional care for women experiencing pelvic discomfort or concerns related to sexual function. Call 856-247-7435 to make an appointment.
• Learn more about HRT and other menopause treatment options.