Can women still have sex after a hysterectomy?

Patient's question:

No

Doctor's answer:

After a hysterectomy, the secretion and lubrication of the vagina may decrease, which can make sexual intercourse difficult. In fact, the uterus has no direct connection with the lubrication and secretion of the vagina. The normal lubrication of the female vagina is due to the exudate of the vaginal mucosa and the secretion of the cervical glands, and it is also related to the estrogen level in the body. After a hysterectomy, the ovarian function is unaffected, and the vaginal secretion function remains normal. During sexual arousal, the vaginal mucosa and Bartholin's glands can still secrete mucus, providing lubrication.
Although the vagina may temporarily shorten after a hysterectomy, the vaginal tissues can gradually lengthen after the surgery as sexual activity resumes, without affecting the ability to engage in sexual intercourse. Extensive evidence has shown that many women who have had their uterus removed due to conditions such as uterine tumors, inflammation, bleeding, prolapse, or endometriosis have been cured of their diseases. The factors causing dyspareunia have been eliminated, and they no longer worry about menstrual disorders, unintended pregnancies, or uterine cancer. Most women report greater satisfaction with sexual life after surgery, and the frequency of sexual activity also increases.