Psychosocial adjustment following major gynaecological surgery for carcinoma of the cervix and vulva

One-hundred and five women had undergone major gynaecological surgery for carcinoma of the cervix and vulva were interviewed retrospectively to elicit post-operative psychosocial and psychosexual problems. This interview took place between 6 months and 5 yr after surgery. Responses to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale indicated that 20% of the women were ‘probable’ cases of anxiety and 21% were ‘definite’ cases. On the depression scale, 18% were ‘doubtful’ cases and 14% were ‘definite’ cases. Scores on the scales were not associated with age of the woman, the type of operation or the time period between being interviewed and the operation. Two-thirds of the women who were sexually active prior to the operation indicated ongoing sexual problems when interviewed and the presence of these problems was found to be significantly associated with the woman's level of anxiety.