ABSTRACT
The psychological outcome of hysterectomy has long been a major issue of concern among both the professionals and the public. Several early retrospective studies reported a higher incidence of posthysterectomy depression, but some contemporary papers did not support that finding [1-3]. Recent prospective studies have shown that the incidence of psychological morbidity is higher even before hysterectomy as a result of the emotional reaction to distressing gynaecological symptoms. Thus, mood improves in most patients after hysterectomy, but the incidence of psychological morbidity still remains higher than in the age-matched female population (Fig. 27.1) [4-6]. What could be the possible causes of residual psychological morbidity after hysterectomy?
