Do women who have had hysterectomys go through menopause?

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. In most cases, the ovaries are also removed, which is called a bilateral oophorectomy. When both the uterus and ovaries are removed, a woman will go into menopause immediately, regardless of her age. This is because the ovaries are the primary source of estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. Without these hormones, the menstrual cycle will cease and a woman will experience the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.

If a woman has a hysterectomy but her ovaries are left intact, she will not go into menopause immediately. However, she may experience some changes in her menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods or lighter bleeding. Over time, the ovaries will produce less estrogen and progesterone, and she will eventually go into menopause.

The age at which a woman goes into menopause after a hysterectomy varies depending on a number of factors, including her age at the time of surgery, her overall health, and her family history. Most women who have a hysterectomy before the age of 40 will go into menopause within 5 years of surgery. Women who have a hysterectomy after the age of 40 may go into menopause sooner or later, depending on their individual circumstances.

If you are considering having a hysterectomy, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure, including the impact it may have on your menstrual cycle and menopause.