Dear Dr. Patti:

I had a hysterectomy several years ago and I still have very little sex drive. How long, on average, does it take before I can expect things to get back to normal?

R

Dear R:

That depends. If you have had a complete hysterectomy, then you may never recover. That type of removal of the uterus includes removal of the tubes and ovaries as well. One of the functions of your ovaries is to produce the hormones necessary for you to feel and behave biologically like a woman.

Hysterectomy causes a false menopause -- the stopping of the sexual hormones that lead to being able to procreate or reproduce.

Sex drive comprises a balanced hormonal system and especially ample sources of testosterone. In women that level of natural testosterone (T) is about 1/20 the amount that men produce. Without testosterone in biologically available levels within the body chemistry, a woman may not feel aroused or sexually hungry or even have an easy time getting to an orgasmic release. Women report to me that without an ample T count, they have opted for hormonal supplementation. The "bible" of T supplementation for women is an excellent book by Dr. Susan Rako, The Hormone of Desire. This heavily researched book for consumers is also helpful for physicians who may feel just as lost in their search for exactly what to do for their female patients, post-hysterectomy and perimenopausal, who complain of lost or no sex drive. Rako is one of the world's foremost authorities and advocates for medically prescribed T supplementation for women to boost their sexual appetites.

Of course, some of the other benefits of T supplementation include stronger bodies, increased muscle mass, overall sustainable energy, a sense of well-being and overcoming mild depression, as well as the unwanted results of hair growth and mild to severe acne. This approach requires a careful assessment and a prescribed program by your M.D.

Other venues are the naturals: herbal, plant or homeopathic alternatives. One of the best-known products to liberate testosterone in the body is avena sativa, or the green oat. I recommend a product called erogenex, found at www.erogenex.com, which is a "homeopathic drug" derived from a special formulation of avena sativa, designed to meet women's unique physiological needs.

To learn more about Dr. Patti, visit her website at www.yoursexcoach.com.