"After my hysterectomy, I can not feel
the sensation of pleasure"

Dear Jacqui,
I had a partial hysterectomy when I was 27, now I'm 38. From this hysterectomy I have experienced depression and I am taking medication and I have been taking some kind of anti-depressant for the last 8 years. And this is the only one that seems to agree with me. My question is during intercourse; I cannot feel the sensation of pleasure. This has been an on going problem, I can't not solve.

These pills puts me in the mood but I still have no feelings at all. My gynecologist says it's my Wellbutrin and my other doctor says it's my other pills. Is there anything I can do to for this problem? Please help I am at a lost, thank you. This has been going on for two years.
Olivia

Dear Olivia
I can well feel your pain and frustration. I have a suspicion that it is in fact your anti-depressant that contributes or causes the lack of feeling during intimacy. Many traditional anti-depressants unfortunately produce negative side effects. However, a new class of anti-depressants has recently come on the market. We are told that they are effective without repressing libido or sensation.

Additionally, I would ask you to have your hormone levels checked by a gynecologist specializing in hormonal treatments. Many women who have had similar problems have been given small doses of testosterone to increase sexual feeling. We believe that your problem can be solved. It takes obviously some patience and a caring, dedicated, doctor who will study your record and guide you through this trial.

Finally, I suggest that in the quiet of your day; spend a little time with yourself and for yourself. Explore your body, see how it feels when you touch yourself or stroke yourself and identify when you have feeling. Focus on that.

Close your eyes and really experience what it feels like when your hands touch your skin, when your fingers touch your vaginal area. Maybe even use a little intimate moisturizer to experience a sensation. Or you might want to experiment gently with a vibrator. The idea is to be in touch with your feelings and learn if there are sensations produced. In the privacy of learning about yourself you can experiment without fear or worry -- just let go and see what feels good. Best wishes.

Jacqui

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