At Northwest Women’s Center, Houston’s leading obstetrics and gynecology practice with thousands of five-star reviews, we understand that patients often feel concerned about the effects of this procedure, particularly on their hormones.
The more you know about how a hysterectomy affects your hormones, the easier it is to prepare and the less intimidating the surgery seems. This blog outlines some of the most common changes you should keep in mind.
How a Hysterectomy Affects Hormones
Depending on the type of hysterectomy you undergo, you may not experience any notable hormonal changes.
A partial hysterectomy involves only the removal of the uterus. Meanwhile, a total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix. Neither the uterus nor the cervix is part of the endocrine system, so there’s no effect on the hormones if they’re taken out.
You will go through hormonal changes if your ovaries are removed during the surgery (oophorectomy). This is because the ovaries produce essential hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Common Hormonal Changes After a Hysterectomy
After a hysterectomy with ovary removal, many women notice symptoms similar to those associated with menopause. These may include:
- Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating. They can be uncomfortable and unpredictable.
- Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations can influence emotions, causing irritability or sadness.
- Vaginal dryness: Reduced estrogen levels may cause discomfort and impact intimacy.
- Sleep disturbances: Night sweats and hormonal shifts can disrupt rest. This, in turn, leads to daytime fatigue.
- Weight gain: Some women gain weight, particularly around the midsection.
- Memory issues: Hormonal fluctuations, combined with poor sleep, can contribute to brain fog and forgetfulness.
If symptoms impact your quality of life, contact Northwest Women’s Center. Our experienced practitioners can recommend personalized solutions to help you feel more like your old self.
Schedule a Hysterectomy Consultation Today
Do you have concerns about hormonal changes after a hysterectomy? The staff at Northwest Women’s Center in Houston is here to answer your questions.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the procedure and how we can support your health and well-being. Call 281.444.3440 or submit our contact form.