Psychological aspects of hysterectomy: Contribvutions from a self-in-relation perspective

Hysterectomy is a very commoBsurgical procedure, second only to Cesarean section as the most frequently performed in the united States today. There has been little progress made in understanding the psychological effects of hysterectomy in a span of over 50 years. In spite of its ubiquity, a consensus still does not exist as to the psychological aspects of a hysterectomy and its impact on a woman. This dissertation presents a chronological review of the literature on the psychological aspects of a hysterectomy and a theoretical model utilizing the self-in-relation theoretical framework. The model is intended to provide an understanding of the interconnection of hysterectomy and developmental issues