A total abdominal hysterectomy is a surgery where a doctor removes the uterus through a cut in the lower belly. Sometimes, the ovaries (which store eggs and make hormones) are also removed. This surgery can help with health issues like heavy bleeding or fibroids. But it can also cause big changes in your body’s hormones and mood. Let’s break down what happens and how to cope.
What Happens to Hormones After Hysterectomy?
If your ovaries are removed during the surgery (called oophorectomy), your body suddenly stops making estrogen and progesterone. These hormones control your periods, mood, sleep, and even bone health. About 40% of women who get a hysterectomy also have their ovaries removed. Even if ovaries stay, they might work less after surgery, leading to hormonal changes after hysterectomy.
Symptoms of Low Estrogen
Low Estrogen can cause:
- Hot flashes (sudden warmth in your face/body).
- Night sweats (sweating while sleeping).
- Vaginal dryness (discomfort during intimacy).
- Mood swings or irritability.
- Trouble sleeping (sleep disturbances after hysterectomy).
Mood Swings and Emotional Changes
Hormones like Estrogen affect brain chemicals that control happiness (like serotonin). When Estrogen drops, many women feel sudden mood swings. Studies show 1 in 3 women experience mood swings after hysterectomy. You might feel angry one minute and sad the next—this is normal, but it can be scary.
Depression After Hysterectomy
Feeling sad for weeks? You’re not alone. Research shows 20-30% of women face depression after hysterectomy. This happens because:
- Hormones are out of balance (post-hysterectomy hormone imbalance).
- Stress about surgery or losing fertility.
- Poor sleep making emotions feel bigger.
Sleep Problems and Hormones
Low Estrogen can mess with your sleep cycle. Around 50% of women struggle with sleep disturbances after hysterectomy, like waking up often or feeling tired all day. Poor sleep makes mood swings and depression worse—it’s a cycle!
How to Fix Hormone Imbalance: HRT and More
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after hysterectomy is a common fix. HRT gives your body the Estrogen it’s missing. About 80% of women on HRT see fewer hot flashes and better moods. But HRT isn’t for everyone—like those with a history of blood clots.
Other Ways to Feel Better
- Eat healthy (soy, nuts, and fruits help balance hormones).
- Exercise daily (even walking boosts mood).
- Talk to a counselor or join a support group.
Why Support Matters
Surgery is a big change! Talking to friends, family, or a therapist can help you feel less alone. Hospitals like Pahlajanis’ Women’s Hospital Raipur offer counseling to help women cope.
About Pahlajanis’ Women’s Hospital Raipur
If you’re considering a total abdominal hysterectomy in Raipur, Pahlajanis’ Women’s Hospital provides expert care. With a team of skilled doctors, they guide patients through surgery and recovery, offering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and emotional support. They focus on personalized care to manage low Estrogen symptoms after hysterectomy and help women regain their physical and emotional health.
Want to learn more about how hysterectomy affects your hormones? Click here: https://pahlajanis.com/blog/total-abdominal-hysterectomy/
A total abdominal hysterectomy can save lives but may disrupt hormones and mood. Know the signs (like mood swings or sleep issues) and ask for help. With treatments like HRT and support from hospitals like Pahlajanis’ Women’s Hospital Raipur, you can feel like yourself again. Remember, you’re not alone - millions of women go through this every year!