Just As Much a Woman: Your Personal Guide to Hysterectomy and Beyond

Every year, hundreds of thousands of women just like you make the critical decision to undergo a hysterectomy. This procedure will take them through a wide range of emotions—from dread and dismay to freedom and joy. With humor and honesty, former hysterectomy patient Nancy Rosenfeld and psychotherapist Dianna Bolen candidly answer the questions every woman wants to ask, including:

• Will I go immediately into menopause?
• How will it affect my sex life?
• What are the risks of taking estrogen?
• Will I look and feel older?
• How long does it take to recover?


If you or someone you love is a candidate for hysterectomy—or have already had one—this positive, reassuring guide will provide a deeper understanding of the experience. You'll learn, as the authors have, that hysterectomy is not an end, but rather a passage to a new beginning.

"This book answered the questions I was afraid to ask. They dissipated the fear, both short-term and long-term, about everything from pain to social attitudes to sex life."—Sandra Edwards, former hysterectomy patient


"An ideal reference book for the concerned patient."—Joachim Frank, M.D.


"An informative, woman-friendly book about an emotionally laden subject. It is written with sensitivity and empowers women by outlining choices and consequences. Must-reading for women anticipating hysterectomy"—Ada P. Kahn, Ph.D.


"A well-rounded guide to the entire hysterectomy process."—Heather Krantz, M.D.

About the Authors

Nancy Rosenfeld, a former hysterectomy patient, is also the author of Unfinished Journey, which details her fight to free a Soviet political prisoner. She and her husband, Martin, reside in a Chicago suburb and have two grown sons.

Dianna W. Bolen, Psy.D., a psychotherapist who works as a consultant to hospitals, has written numerous articles for newspapers and magazines on personal growth, spirituality, and sexuality. She lives in Chicago with her dog, Maxwell, and two cats.

Nancy Rosenfeld, a bipolar-disorder survivor herself, is the author of two other books, including Just As Much a Woman.