Psycho-social problems of women who had undergone hysterectomy

• Premature menopause (even if the ovaries are left in place)• Sexual problems such a loss of desire and reduction in orgasm• Pelvic pain• Depression• Thromboembolism• Pulmonary problemsPHYSICAL IMPACT OF HYSTERECTOMYWeight gain—weight gain is not an inevitable result of hysterectomy. It mayoccur owing to lack of exercise and/or over-eating because of boredom during therecovery phase. Weight can be controlled by diet at this time just as at any other.Constipation—this may occur at first owing to lack of muscle tone, and ispreferably controlled by eating high fibre foods. In some cases the doctor mayprescribe a laxative.Urinary symptoms—slight leaking of urine may occur at first owing to lack ofmuscle tone. This will be improved by carrying out the exercises already taught bythe physiotherapist or learned as postnatal exercises. Discomfort or burning onpassing urine may indicate cystitis and the doctor should be consulted fortreatment, which will rapidly relieve the problem.Tiredness—this will occur at first to a sometimes surprising degree, but graduallyimproves as one becomes stronger. Despite feeling tired, difficulty may beexperienced temporarily in sleeping. The problem will go away as normal routinesare re-established.Abdominal pain—this and other aches and pains, for example backache, may beexperienced during the early days at home until strength is regained. The doctorshould be consulted in the unlikely event of more severe pain.