What You Can Expect After A Hysterectomy

@menopausedoctor What to expect when getting a #hysterectomy #menopause #perimenopause #menopausedoctor #menopausetiktok #menopausesupport #hormones #bhrt ♬ UNDERWATER WONDERSCAPES (MASTER) – Frederic Bernard

If you are about to have a hysterectomy, here are some things to expect.

First, some definitions.

A total hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and the cervix. A total hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy, either unilateral or bilateral, implies the removal of the uterus, cervix, and either one or both of the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

A radical hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and surrounding tissue.

Women who have their uterus removed but keep their ovaries usually continue producing hormones and may continue ovulating until menopause, even though they no longer have periods.

Most women will experience menopausal symptoms within one year of that surgery, even if the ovaries are intact. The ovaries may still cycle, but the amount of hormones they make may be lower because of reduced ovarian reserve.

You may enter menopause about three to seven years earlier than you would have without the surgery.

A bilateral oophorectomy, with or without removal of the uterus, puts you into menopause. The uterus and ovaries are often removed together.

After this surgery, you should be offered hormone replacement therapy because you are at higher risk for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

In 2006, Mayo Clinic reported that women who had both ovaries and both fallopian tubes removed had higher all-cause mortality if they did not take estrogen hormone replacement therapy.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

If you are interested in learning more about hormone replacement therapy to manage the symptoms of menopause, call (760) 542-8898 or request a consultation online.