Appropriate timing of sexual intercourse by vaginal stump mucous membrane observation after total laparoscopic hysterectomy

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the appropriate timing of sexual intercourse by vaginal stump mucous membrane observation after total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH).

Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 50 patients who received TLH in Tokushima Red Cross Hospital by the same gynecologist between November 1, 2013, and March 31, 2015. We observed the vaginal stump mucous membrane by colposcopy at approximately 1, 3, and 6 months after TLH.

Results: Among 50 patients, 49 (98%) showed no healing at approximately 1 month after TLH, and 1 (2%) showed a state consistent with partial healing. At approximately 3 months after TLH, among 49 patients (one was unable to undergo a medical examination due to residing overseas), 3 (6.1%) showed no healing, 27 (55.1%) partial healing, and 19 (38.8%) complete healing. At approximately 6 months after TLH, among the total 50 patients, 1 (2.0%) showed partial healing and the other 49 (98.0%) complete healing.

Conclusion: At 6 months after TLH, almost all cases showed complete healing as regards the vaginal stump mucous membrane, and the trends observed herein can be judged as indicating the appropriate timing of sexual intercourse. However, individual differences must also be noted, as complete healing after TLH in 3 months would allow patients to engage in sexual intercourse at this time point.