Long-term outcome after hysterectomy - An interdisciplinary study

Objective: We undertook a multidisciplinary study of the biological and psy chosocial consequences of hysterectomy. We studied correlations between out comes and independent factors such as pre-exisiting morbidity. Methods: Sixty-four women of reproductive age were interviewed before and 3 years after hysterectomy. Data were collected by a gynecologist, a psychol ogist, a psychoanalytical psychiatrist, and the patients' general practione rs. In 70% of women the operation was performed for a pathologic indication whereas in 30% the operation was elective. Results: After hysterectomy psychiatric problems according to DSM III decre ased from 31% to 7% and the prevalence of sexual dysfunction decreased from 57% to 48%. Overall, 28% of the women described themselves as dissatisfied . At 3 years the general practioners found an unfavorable trend in the gene ral health of 58% of the women and 35% had not yet fully coped with the eve nt. Conclusion: A healthy female identity, mature decision making and anticipat ion, and a strong medical indication for hysterectomy are protective factor s in women undergoing hysterectomy. Postoperative trauma and preexisiting p sychiatric problems are risk factors for unfavorable outcomes.