In Sickness and in Health: The Effects of Hysterectomy on Women's Partners and Intimate Relationships

Abstract

Hysterectomy is a significant event in many women's lives, and women may have to deal with changes both before and after surgery that will inevitably impact their life with their significant other. Using thematic coding of qualitative data from an online survey, this study explored the woman's perspective of the effect of hysterectomy on the partner and intimate relationship. Findings indicate that supportive partners can aid in a woman's recovery, but male partners may lack information, particularly on the possible effects on the sexual relationship. The therapeutic needs of couples dealing with hysterectomy are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• hysterectomy
• couples
• sex
• partner
• couples therapy
• lesbians
• single women