How to Cope With Life After a Hysterectomy

A woman can have a hysterectomy for a variety of reasons, whether it's because of fibroids, cancer, chronic pain, endometriosis, bleeding or other factors. It is a life-changing surgery, but it is possible to cope with life after a hysterectomy.

Instructions

• 1

  Prepare for menopause symptoms after a hysterectomy. These symptoms may be more severe than natural menopause symptoms.

• 2

  Talk to your doctor to find out if hormone replacement therapy is right for you and what kind you should take. Hormone replacement therapy is a common prescription that replaces lost estrogen and relieves the effects of menopause.

• 3

  Know your options when it comes to hormone replacement therapy. You can take oral estrogen pills or non-oral products such as patches, gels, vaginal creams and tablets. These are considered safer than oral treatments since they have a slightly lower risk of stroke.

• 4

  Be aware that your sex life can change after a hysterectomy. Some women have no change, some women find sex to be more satisfying and some find they have little or no arousal. This is treatable with help for a doctor. If intercourse is painful, this may be due to the removal of the cervix and shortening of the vagina. Changing positions may help.

• 5

  Seek help from your doctor if you experience depression, which is common after a hysterectomy due to the change of hormones in the body and the way a woman views herself. This is treatable, so see your doctor as soon as possible if you notice symptoms.

• 6

  Treat vaginal dryness with a lubricant or vaginal moisturizer to prevent discomfort, irritation or pain during intercourse.