What are the effects of hysterectomy?
Jun 17, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Huiying
Introduction
Hysterectomy is a gynecological surgical procedure. Depending on the nature, location, size of the lesion, and the patient’s age, various surgical approaches may be employed—including partial hysterectomy, subtotal hysterectomy, total hysterectomy, modified radical hysterectomy, and radical hysterectomy. The main effects of hysterectomy include: reduced vaginal secretions, premature onset of menopausal symptoms, chronic (permanent) pain, and psychological issues.
Hysterectomy generally refers to surgical removal of the uterus. It is a gynecological procedure performed based on the nature, location, size of the lesion, and the patient’s age—various surgical approaches may be adopted, including partial (supracervical), subtotal, total, modified radical, and radical hysterectomy.
The main impacts of hysterectomy include the following:
1. Reduced vaginal discharge: Vaginal secretions consist of endometrial and cervical glandular secretions as well as desquamated vaginal epithelial cells. Following hysterectomy, vaginal discharge significantly decreases.
2. Premature onset of menopausal symptoms: Hysterectomy may compromise ovarian blood supply, accelerating ovarian functional decline. This can lead to premature aging, earlier onset of menopause, and potentially reduced life expectancy.
3. Chronic pain: Some women develop persistent neuropathic pain after hysterectomy, characterized by diffuse discomfort radiating from the lower back to the buttocks and posterior thighs—causing discomfort during both walking and sitting.
4. Psychological effects: Hysterectomy may adversely affect psychological well-being. Particularly among women with heightened emotional sensitivity, concerns about hormonal changes and their impact on health may trigger depression and anxiety disorders.
