Psycho-social problems of women who had undergone hysterectomy

The physical, emotional and social problems that the hysterectomy patient facesare closely interwoven. The way in which the woman perceives her role in lifegreatly affects her reaction to the loss of reproductive ability. The patient whodefines her role as a woman in relation to her reproductive ability must be assistedin redefining her self-concept, preferably before the hysterectomy. The patientmust be assured of her intrinsic worth and dignity regardless of her reproductiveability. It is also important to explore her relationships with others. An assessmentof the family structure enables to determine if a support system is available to thepatient. Most patients undergoing hysterectomy require a minimum six to eightweeks to recover from the initial surgery. A return to the equal of the preoperativestate may take up to one year depending on the recuperative physical andemotional powers of the woman and the support she receives.The best way to describe some women’s initial response to the announcement ofimpending hysterectomy is to compare the experience to the grief process asdefined by Kubler-Ross. Shock & disbelief are the initial reactions to the need forremoval of the uterus and subsequent loss of reproductive ability. If the surgery isan emergency, it is important to deal with the patient who may not realize the fullextent and implications of the procedure. Denial often is present. An attitude ofisolation and withdrawal may develop. It is important to listen to what the patientsays, and then offer simple, clear, and concise explanations to questions andattempt to determine the extent of understanding available to the patient.When a period of time from diagnosis to surgery is available to the patient, theshock and disbelief at the need for surgery often progresses to anger. This anger isdirected at an intrusive procedure that will result in a loss of reproductive abilityand, often, a conceptual loss of femininity. The anger may be personal and innerdirected. The patient must be allowed to express the anger and hostility she feelsbefore she can begin to cope with the actual surgery. Listening and providingsupport can encourage verbalization.