Sex following a hysterectomy?

etnasgrl

Prior to being diagnosed with breast cancer, I had uterine fibroids. They caused moderate to severe pain during my periods, however I just decided to live with the pain since it wasn't all the time, just a few days each month.
Then came breast cancer and obviously thinking about or dealing with my uterine fibroids was put on the back burner.
I'm now out of active treatment and on Tamoxifen. The Tamoxifen is making the uterine fibroids and the pain associated with them, much worse.

I met with my OB/GYN today, to discuss a hysterectomy. After a pelvic exam and an ultrasound, she agreed that a laparoscopic hysterectomy would work for me. She wants to remove the uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. (I had a tubal ligation done 10+ years ago). She agreed to keep the ovaries and will only remove them if she finds extreme cysts, which she doesn't think will happen. (I tested negative for BRCA. I was tested because my mother had breast cancer at 42 and I was 41.)

I asked her about sex after the hysterectomy and she told me I would need to wait 6 weeks because I need to allow the stiches that will hold the vagina in place time to heal.
I didn't think of it then, but I'm thinking of it now. What will sex after the hysterectomy FEEL like? Will it feel the same? And what about my husband? Will it feel the same for him?
I'm worried about this. We're not wild and crazy in the sheets, but sex is important to us both.

So....now I'm having second thoughts. Should I just deal with the fibroids, like I've been doing all along or should I jump in and just get the hysterectomy done?
Anyone who had had one....can you share your experiences with me, if you don't mind?

Molly50

I had a hysterectomy with major repairs 5 years ago. Even with all I had done sex has been great and especially for my husband. I worried about not having as intense orgasms but it was great. Do expect to be a bit sore or scared initially but that's pretty natural. Just be sure to follow instructions and not do any lifting or housework for the full six weeks. Those sutures on your vaginal cuff need to heal. I highly recommend Hystersisters. Com for great information and support.

ddfair

I had a hysterectomy at 24. Best decision of my life! Figure I've saved a small fortune on hygiene products over the years. No more colposcopies, pap smears, birth control,or period cramps. Sex was way better too. There was no down side at all. I will never have to worry about cervical or uterine cancer. It's all good. I highly recommend. it.

etnasgrl

Thank you both for your replies!

Lvbugs

Yep,, I'm another one who had a hysterectomy last November. No problem with sex at all and I feel great, kept one ovary. Only down side was delayed healing, so it took 8 weeks instead of 6. I recommend HysterSisters for support as well.