Subjective perceptions of life among women after hysterectomy

Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia

^* Corresponding author: banovcinova@jfmed.uniba.sk

Abstract

Hysterectomy is the most commonly performed gynaecological surgery, which can influence woman's life in sexual, psychological, hormonal and social sphere. The aim of this study was to examine the subjective perceptions of life among women after hysterectomy (positive and negative effects of surgery, sources of social support, satisfaction with support, satisfaction with life and health). 70 women who underwent hysterectomy (mean age was 47.66 ± 9.47 y.; 29–72) were assigned for this study. The Multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS) and additional questions were used to gain information on social support, positive and negative effects of surgery, satisfaction with support, satisfaction with life and health. The majority (68.6%) of respondents prefer husband or partner as a source of support and were subjectively satisfied with this support (81.4%). 20% sought support outside family and friends network and priest, psychologist and support groups were their preferred supporters. The most cited positive aspects of hysterectomy were the disappearance of symptoms and reduced fear of uterine cancer. Most women did not see any negative consequences of surgery (45.7%) and were subjectively satisfied with their life (90%). Since the social support is one of the important factors affecting women's life, healthcare professionals should also focus on building and strengthening patient's support network when working with these groups of women.