Weight gain after hysterectomy
Dear Donovan,
I read your article on cerasee tea. Thanks for the insight. I had a hysterectomy and I have been gaining weight since the surgery. Is there any tea that you can recommend that will help me with my menopausal symptoms and also for the weight loss due to this issue? I appreciate any enlightenment that you can share on my problem.
I am very happy that you have read my columns. I hope you will continue to read them and that they will continue to be a good source of information for you and other readers.
I am sorry to hear about your hysterectomy challenges. Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It may also involve the removal of the cervix, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and other surrounding structures. It should be noted that hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure that has risks and benefits.
Hysterectomy affects the hormonal balance and the overall health of a woman for the rest of her life. Hysterectomy is therefore normally recommended as a last effort for certain uterine/reproductive system conditions like tumours, cancer and uterine fibroids. If the ovaries are removed during hysterectomy, the oestrogen levels will fall rapidly. The fall in levels of oestrogen will remove the protective effect of oestrogen on the cardiovascular and skeleton systems. In addition, the sharp reduction of oestrogen can also cause the rapid onset of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
Studies have also shown that osteoporosis (decrease in bone density) and increased risk of bone fracture are associated with hysterectomy. This has also been associated with high rate of heart diseases, weakened bones, and wound infections. Approximately three per cent of abdominal hysterectomies end up in wound infection.
In your situation, you have put on noticeable weight since you have done your hysterectomy. The rapid weight gain normally takes place following cases of hysterectomy where the uterus, cervix, ovaries and Fallopian tubes have been removed. This causes the body to no longer produce oestrogen and progesterone. The lack of these hormones in women increase the male hormones in the body. This causes menopausal women to be more prone to weight gain around the abdomen.
In order for you to maintain your weight, you should follow a healthy diet and keep up with your exercises. Having a diet consisting of more fruits, soups, salads, vegetables and vegetable juices is very important for maintaining your weight. In addition, maintaining adequate exercise/activity is also important for maintaining your weight.
There are herbal preparations that may help, but consuming a healthy diet as well as exercising can play a major role in controlling the hot flashes. Also, controlling your intake of caffeine may also be important in alleviating hot flashes. Hence, try to avoid beverages containing caffeine such as sodas. In addition to your diet and exercise, you could also consult with your doctor to see if hormonal replacement therapy might be helpful to you. Good luck.
We will answer your weight-related questions.
Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Call him at 876-286-1363. E-mail questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com.
