Physical, psychological and sexual effects in multi-ethnic Malaysian women who have undergone hysterectomy.

AIM The postoperative effects on Asian women after hysterectomy have not been fully explored. This study was undertaken to investigate the physical, psychological and sexual functioning effects in multi-ethnic Malaysian women who have undergone hysterectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted on women who underwent hysterectomy at the Gynecological Outpatient Clinic, University of Malaya Medical Center between November 2008 and October 2009. RESULTS Postoperative physical and psychological effects were common. Participants with higher household income had a significantly lower number of physical and psychological problems. Young women were more likely to experience psychological effects. There were significant differences between ethnic groups in physical and psychological symptoms. A multivariate model to determine factors associated with sexual functioning identified the importance of sexual relationship, spouse or partner's attitudes, and ethnic groups as significant covariates. CONCLUSION The findings underscore the importance of ethnic-based approaches to counseling to mitigate the psychological effects of hysterectomy and to focus on young women with low socioeconomic status.