I read your "Hysterectomy: Will Orgasms Be the Same after a Hysterectomy? article and felt very relieved. I had a hysterectomy done four months ago. But recently I was told that some doctors leave in the cervix because it contains many nerve endings and the G spot. I was very upset when I heard this. I had asked four doctors if the procedure would change my orgasm, and they said no. I would appreciate a little reassurance. My vagina is definitely narrower; I think the doctor thought he was doing me a great service! I am 53 years old.

M.

The "G spot" is a creation of the media; it is not a scientifically defined identifiable anatomic spot. And in any case, the "G spot" was described as being about one-third of the way up the front wall of the vagina.

Most women who achieve orgasm do so through stimulation of the clitoris. This does not mean, however, that a hysterectomy has no impact on orgasms. The uterus contracts during an orgasm, and some women find this very pleasurable; that sensation will be gone if the uterus is removed, regardless of whether the cervix is left behind. Many women actually enjoy intercourse more *after* a hysterectomy. There are no longer worries of an unplanned pregnancy. There is no more bleeding. Pain that may have prompted the surgery is gone.

The vast majority of gynecologists do recommend removal of the cervix at the time of hysterectomy due to the potential for developing cervical dysplasia or cancer. If the cervix is left (and the reason to do so is to provide better pelvic support), then Pap smears must be done annually.