Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common complaint after a hysterectomy. It’s not always related to the hysterectomy itself, though it can be. Either way, your concerns are real!

There are many different potential solutions for vaginal dryness. Here are some common ones:

• Vaginal/vulvar moisturizers

• Vaginal estrogen (via prescription)

• LUBE!

• More foreplay

• Various medications (ask your doctor)

• Addressing fear of sex

• Reducing any pain occurring with sex

When you have your cervix removed, your vaginal lubrication often changes. You still make some, but some of the lubrication we feel is from cervical mucus. This can be a more apparent change for some women than others.

Vaginal lubrication can also change during perimenopause and menopause.

Often, these times overlap. You’re having a hysterectomy while also in menopause, and you're unsure what symptom is coming from where.

It’s confusing and frustrating!

You also shouldn’t ignore the fear surrounding sex after surgery. Moisture is easier to come by if you’re aroused and engaged in sexual activity!
If you’re still feeling nervous about sex after surgery, getting more education about what happened in your surgery and practicing solo can give you more confidence. Pelvic floor therapy can also help.

The good news? Research shows that sexual outcomes after hysterectomy are largely good. Especially if the surgery is performed for pain or bulk issues. Things tend to feel better after, even if someone is dealing with dryness.

I often tell the women I work with, “How it feels at the beginning doesn’t have to be how it feels forever.”

Give yourself time.