Signs & Symptoms of Menopause After a Hysterectomy

When ovaries are removed as part of a hysterectomy, a woman's estrogen levels plummet and she enters menopause immediately, regardless of her age. Many people are familiar with common symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, but women also need to watch for headaches, mood swings and bone loss.

Effects

• Loss of estrogen affects each woman differently. Some have hot flashes so severe they're tempted to take off their clothes and jump in the snow in the middle of winter. Others wake in the middle of the night drenched in sweat.

Vaginal Symptoms

• Many women experience vaginal dryness, itching and burning. Lack of lubrication can lead to pain during intercourse.

Other Symptoms

• Menopause can cause mood swings, frequent crying and depression. Hormonal changes can also lead to headaches, including migraines and weight gain. Drops in estrogen can speed up bone density loss, as well, sometimes leading to osteoporosis. Heart disease is also a concern.

Solution

• Women should talk to their doctors about symptoms. There are many types of supplemental estrogen available with a prescription. Alternative remedies are also an option, including eating soy and taking botanical remedies such as black cohosh.

Warning

• Hormone replacement therapy has many benefits, but it can also increase cancer risks.