Our Menopause Blogs

This month we wrote about our experiences with menopause. I'm so proud of this series.

Because of Prolapsed Uterus Orgasms Painful!

Hello Betty,

I am 57, and in the past 2 years was diagnosed with (not severe) rear pelvic wall collapse, and the beginnings of a prolapsed uterus. This discovery was made when I began to have pain during intercourse and problems with constant urinary pressure. At present I am using a vaginal estrogen cream, which has helped significantly with the pressure on my urethra, but I still have pain during intercourse. But my real concern is with my orgasms.

Facing Hysterectomy & Don't Want Lose Orgasm

Dear Dr. Betty,

I believe that a high percentage of my orgasmic pleasure lies in my uterine contractions, although I find it difficult to separate all that I feel during orgasm into the reaction of my various internal organs.

Any Pointers on Sex After a Hysterectomy?

Dear Dr. Betty,

I'm a 37 year old female who is recovering from a complete (including the ovaries) hysterectomy. I've not had sex yet but I'm worried about a decrease in sexual desire and the inability to get wet when I am in the throes. What can I do now on my own to insure that I can have great partner sex? Should I take vitamins? Are there exercises? Help.

A

Dear A,

Since Hysterectomy, I Can't Orgasm

Dear Dr. Betty,

I have not been able to have an orgasm since I had my hysterectomy. I thought at first it was because I was in a bad marriage, we didn't have sex at all the last five years we were together. However, I have been involved with a wonderful man for the past year, he is very loving and attentive, and has no problem exciting me! But I still cannot seem to have an orgasm, only a couple of times. It feels good, but never quite gets there. Even self stimulation falls short. Is there anything I can do?

Dear D,

Why the Rush to the Hysterectomy?

Dear Dr. Betty,

Various surveys show that 30 to 40 percent of women have some sexual deterioration from a hysterectomy and the doctors don't tell them. The government says that 40 percent of them are not needed. Since you are coming out against circumcision, FGM and labia surgery, I would think you would work on this also.

It would be especially noticed on Youtube. Here it shows the effect of routinely removing the cervix in the operation:

http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6874/2/1

Why Does the US Favor Total Abdominal Hysterectomy?

Dear Betty,

Various surveys show that 30 to 40 percent of women have some sexual deterioration from a hysterectomy and the doctors don't tell them.  The government says that 40 percent of them are not needed. Since you are coming out against circumcision, FGM and labia surgery, I would think you would work on this also.

It would be especially noticed on Youtube.  Here it shows the effect of routinely removing the cervix in the operation:

http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6874/2/1