What are the effects of uterine removal on women?

Jul 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
As a gynecological procedure, hysterectomy may have several impacts on women, including loss of fertility, cessation of menstruation, changes in pelvic floor structure, alterations in sexual life, and psychological effects. In daily life, if facing this situation, one can proactively address potential impacts and maintain physical and mental health as well as quality of life by learning about relevant surgical information, adjusting one's mindset, and performing pelvic floor muscle exercises.

Generally, as a gynecological procedure, hysterectomy may have the following impacts on women: loss of fertility, cessation of menstruation, changes in pelvic floor structure, alterations in sexual life, and psychological effects. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Loss of fertility: The uterus is the organ where fetal development occurs. After hysterectomy, women can no longer become pregnant, which is the most direct effect of the surgery. This impact is particularly significant for women who desire fertility and requires adequate psychological and lifestyle planning before surgery.

2. Cessation of menstruation: Menstruation results from the periodic shedding of the endometrium. After hysterectomy, the endometrium no longer exists, and menstruation stops completely. This type of menstrual cessation differs from natural menopause, as it occurs suddenly, and the body may require some time to adapt to this change.

3. Changes in pelvic floor structure: The uterus is centrally located in the pelvis and provides support to the pelvic floor tissues. After hysterectomy, the supporting structures of the pelvic floor may be affected, potentially leading to pelvic floor muscle relaxation and increasing the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, such as anterior or posterior vaginal wall bulging, which may cause symptoms like a sensation of downward pressure, abnormal urination, or defecation.

4. Changes in sexual life: Some women may experience discomfort during sexual intercourse after hysterectomy, such as vaginal dryness or dyspareunia, which may be related to postoperative hormonal changes or psychological factors. However, some women may find their sexual quality of life unaffected or even improved due to no longer worrying about pregnancy or disease, showing significant individual variation.

5. Psychological effects: Hysterectomy may cause psychological stress in women, leading to anxiety, depression, or feelings of inferiority. Particularly for younger women, they may perceive the surgery as a loss of certain female characteristics, which may affect self-identity. Understanding and support from family members can help alleviate these negative emotions.

In daily life, if facing this situation, individuals can actively cope with potential effects and maintain physical and mental health and quality of life by acquiring knowledge about the surgery, adjusting their mindset, and performing pelvic floor muscle exercises.

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