Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is the second most frequently performed major surgical procedure for women of reproductive age in the United States, second only to cesarean section. By the age of 60, one out of every three women in the U.S. has had a hysterectomy. It seems that American doctors have utilized hysterectomies as a quick and easy fix for ‘female problems’.

Among women who had a hysterectomy between the years of 1994 and 1999, 55% also had their ovaries removed. In 40% of the cases, the women were less than 45 years old at the time of the procedure. Since 1965, the percentage of women whose hysterectomies also included the removal of the ovaries has doubled. This is a problem because the removal of the ovaries is the equivalent of male castration! Removal of both ovaries causes an immediate 50% reduction in circulating testosterone, and a more than 80% drop in circulating estrogen. Testosterone and estrogen play a vital role in both sexual desire and sexual functioning. When left in place, the ovaries produce hormones long after menopause and support healthy sexual response and performance.

What about hormone replacement therapy? Is that the answer to restoring sexual desire? I'll address that tomorrow.