This is an operation to remove the womb. Once the scars are healed, the operation does nothing to impair intercourse but women say that it alters their orgasmic sensations, which is hardly surprising since the womb contracts during an orgasm. Because of this (amongst other reasons) some surgeons try to keep the cervix and lower part of the womb if possible and to remove the upper part only. Some women are so pleased to be rid of the heavy periods, or whatever caused them to have their womb removed, that they see the whole procedure as entirely welcome. Others mourn the loss of the organ and become depressed.
Hysterectomy is a very common procedure (about a quarter of a million women a year in the USA lose their uterus) and many operations are done unnecessarily. One advantage to having a hysterectomy is that contraception is no longer a concern. Periods cease, of course, but ovulation continues as normal (if the ovaries have been saved) until the menopause.
Retroverted womb-Usually the womb lies on top of the bladder at a 90° angle pointing forwards towards the front of the body. If the womb is tilted backwards instead of forwards it can produce pain on intercourse. This position of the womb is found in 15 per cent of women, though not all have pain on intercourse.
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