Masturbation After Hysterectomy: Rediscovering Pleasure

The Basics: Hysterectomy Types and Effects

The uterus contains the cervix and plays a key role in menstruation and childbirth. There are various reasons you and your doctor may opt for a hysterectomy: to treat severe endometriosis, prolapsed uterus, cancer and more. The most common approaches are:

Total Hysterectomy

Removal of the uterus and cervix. For many patients, this renders you unable to become pregnant or have a period. Ovaries are usually preserved.

Partial Hysterectomy

The uterus is taken out but the cervix remains intact. Some women report retained ability to have orgasms involving cervical stimulation.

Radical Hysterectomy

The uterus, cervix, top of the vagina, and sometimes ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed. This extensive surgery impacts sexual function the most.

Roughly 600,000 hysterectomies are performed in the US each year, with Total Hysterectomy being the most common. Any hysterectomy can disrupt the nerves and anatomy involved in arousal and climax. Side effects range from vaginal dryness and pain, to diminished libido and inability to orgasm. But the good news is, many women are still able to achieve sexual pleasure and fulfillment with some adjustment.

Masturbation to the Rescue

In the recovery period - and even once cleared for penetrative sex again - masturbation can be a healthy, empowering way to explore your "new normal". Self-love allows you to discover which types of touch and stimulation feel good now, sans expectations or performance anxiety. An understanding partner is great, but only you can truly listen to your own body and find what works.

Building Body Awareness

Don't assume anything based on how you used to orgasm. Give yourself permission to play without any set "goals". Take inventory of sensations: where do you feel pleasure or numbness? What motions or pressures bring arousal? Focus just on mapping out these new landscapes.

Trying Fresh Angles

Classic techniques like clitoral strokes or penetration may or may not feel the same. Experiment with different types of stimulation: smooth versus textured, fast taps versus slow grinds. The internal clitoris and G-spot can still be accessed through the vaginal walls.

Introducing Toys

Many doctors encourage using vibrators in new ways post-hysterectomy. Rumbly toys applied externally to the vulva or internally with pressure on the front vaginal wall can awaken dormant pleasure zones. Go slow and use plenty of lube as everything adjusts.

Confronting Changes with Self-Love

This period of reconnection can stir up difficult emotions, from grief over the loss of past sensations to worries about satisfying future lovers. Be gentle with yourself and don't get discouraged. Trust that with care and creativity, you can forge exciting pathways to incredible orgasms again.

Mourning the Old

Let yourself feel the sadness and fear without judgement. Missing your cervix or lamenting vaginal changes is normal. Journaling, talking to a therapist, or sharing with support groups for hysterectomy patients can help process the grief.

Redefining Pleasure

As you slowly explore, challenge the ingrained notions you may have about how 'real' orgasms happen. Shatter preconceived notions of "lesser" types of climax. Ecstasy comes in infinite, surprising forms if you let your body lead.

Celebrating Growth

Self-acceptance and love during and after transition is truly brave. Each new flutter or wave of rapture is a triumph over pain and helplessness. Masturbation can be a deeply healing journey of reclaiming your sensual power.

Opening Up to Partner Sex

When you feel ready to bring your lover back into the bedroom, the communication and creativity honed through self-pleasure will serve you well. Guide them to touch you in rewarding ways. Discuss boundaries around any medical concerns. Most importantly, know you deserve fulfillment and to feel sexy and wanted exactly as you are now.

Setting the Mood

Taking stress and time-pressure off lets arousal flourish unhindered. Indulge in sensory delights: massage, soft music, flavored lubes. Make sure your lover understands pleasure is the goal, not orgasm or any specific act.

Expanding the Menu

Just as you discovered new blissful zones alone, adapt old scripts with your partner. They may need to retrain themselves on your unique needs and desires. Allow space for giggles as you both curiously explore unfamiliar erogenous areas.

Honest Conversation

Shame often prevents hysterectomy patients from opening up about sexual health. But research shows good communication improves sex greatly. Voice fears and insecurities so they can be addressed. Brainstorm creative ideas to enhance intimacy.

Remember, you are not merely a passive recipient - you deserve to actively sculpt your sex life according to your own requirements for pleasure and wellbeing. With patience and care for yourself and your partner, amazing sensations are still absolutely possible after big life changes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.