The impact of a history of rape and incest on the posthysterectomy experience

The impact of a history of rape and incest on the posthysterectomy experience

I conducted a cross‐sectional study to examine the impact of a history of rape and/or incest on the posthysterectomy experience. The sample consisted of 92 women recovering from elective hysterectomies. They were interviewed at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after their operations. The Derogotis Sexual Functioning Index, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies‐Depression Scale, and two hysterectomy‐related questionnaires were administered. An analysis of variance compared abused with nonabused women on their sexual functioning, depression level, and satisfaction with their hysterectomy decision. Abused women had a significantly (p < .05) higher level of depression in the first year after the hysterectomy but not in the second year after the operation. Results suggest the need for expanded pre‐operative sexual history assessments and interventions and also to define areas for further research.

General Health Professions