Thread: Problem after having a hysterectomy gaining weight not loosing weight

When a womans ovaries are removed during a hysterectomy (a complete hysterectomy), your body is instantly pushed into menopause. The ovaries produce estrogen, progesterone, and androstenedione and when they are removed the levels of these hormones drop dramatically and the effects and changes on a woman's body can be varied. Weight gain is in most cases one of them.

Abdominal weight gain is believed to be tied to an excess of androgens, and a decrease in estrogen. Men tend to gain weight in their waists rather than in their hips or thighs, where women more commonly gain weight. Decreased levels of estrogen can lead to a similar effect in women. Androgens are the "male hormones" that are normally present in a woman's body. Menopause or a hysterectomy can skew the balance of these androgens against estrogen. Other elements that may be at work are a slowed metabolism, and water retention.

As mentioned above - keeping an eye on your diet and exercise can all help in keeping your weight down, and generally looking after yourself. If you feel that you are gaining too much weight, especially if you are looking after yourself, your doctor may be able to prescribe you hormonal medication to balance out your hormones.