HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Suggest Ways To Deal With Weight Gain Post Total Hysterectomy

default
Posted on Mon, 2 Nov 2015
Question: Hello,

I had a total hysterectomy for removal of fibroids. My normal OBGYN did not perform the procedure. I went to another doctor to have the procedure performed due to the type of procedure he did. I live alone without family around, and I am also a caregiver for my mother. I needed relief from the fibroids. I was also seeking a quicker recovery. However, now I realize I did not need such a radical procedure. I was not informed of all of the side effects of having this done a total hysterectomy. I mentioned to my regular OBGYN that I might go elsewhere to get the procedure done. She said that was fine, and afterward I would be coming back to her for follow up treatment. She is so busy that I am not even sure she realized which procedure I was getting. Fibroid removal or hysterectomy. However, she knew I was thinking about getting something done. I wish she talked with me more and made me aware of the consequences. I have been her patient for 6 to 7 years. I had a total hysterectomy with removal of ovaries. I do not have cancer. I am 50 but I am not dead. I would like to date, not gain weight, and live a long healthy life. I work out and eat right. Now I have been several articles after the fact and I am horrified. Since my procedure I have not been able to sleep but 4 hours per night.
Where do I go from here? I am going to see her this Thursday. What questions do I need to ask.
1. How do you test to see what my hormone levels are and what do I do to keep them leveled out?
2. How do I combat weight gain from procedure
3. What do I do concerning sex life after procedure: Is sex life affected. Is my anatomy different? Do you have to stretch your vaginal canal?
4. I recently thought of a friend that had a hysterectomy and I called her. She said sex was very painful and it burned. It took her about 9 months before she could have sex again with her husband? Her vagina was different?
5. How are bio-identical hormone replacement drugs.
My girlfriend above is on these and she said that she feels great. I have seen that these are not FDA approved. Are some of them approved. Her consultant was able to spend time with her and discuss alot of the questions I have asked and not be on a 15 minute time limit. Their claim is to XXXXXXX make what you need. However, they are very expensive. However, the doctor is a MD? What are your thoughts.
6. At this point do I need someone that focuses on GYN only. My OBGYN is so busy. At this point I really need to have someone to listen to me and help me get back on track.

I would appreciate any guidance.
Thank-You,
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (19 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Detailed answer below

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear,
I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
I will answer your questions as you asked.
1. The hormonal levels of the body can be tested by the blood tests. If the hormone levels are very low, or you start experiencing the symptoms of menopause, then you can be started on hormonal replacement therapy.
2.Weight gain is unlikely related to the procedure, however I suggest you to get your thyroid hormone levels and cortisol levels done, as they are the major cause of weight gain.
If normal, you can work out and follow a healthy diet to keep the weight in control.
3.Your sex life will be completely normal. There is no distortion in vaginal anatomy, neither you need vaginal dilatation.
4.Vaginal dryness can be there after removal of ovaries. You can apply lubricants during intercourse to combat dryness and burning.
5. Bioidentical hormonal replacement therapy can be given when the symptoms like severe hot flushing, bone pains, vaginal dryness, mood changes set in. They are to be taken under the prescription of a doctor and should be taken in the doses as prescribed.
6.Yes, I am an OBGYN specialist, and you can get back to me for all your health related issues. I am here to help you.
Hope you found the answer helpful. Please do get back for further queries.
Wishing you good health.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma
OBGYN specialist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Deepti Verma

OBGYN, Maternal and Fetal Medicine

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 5064 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Suggest Ways To Deal With Weight Gain Post Total Hysterectomy

Brief Answer: Detailed answer below Detailed Answer: Hi dear, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns. I will answer your questions as you asked. 1. The hormonal levels of the body can be tested by the blood tests. If the hormone levels are very low, or you start experiencing the symptoms of menopause, then you can be started on hormonal replacement therapy. 2.Weight gain is unlikely related to the procedure, however I suggest you to get your thyroid hormone levels and cortisol levels done, as they are the major cause of weight gain. If normal, you can work out and follow a healthy diet to keep the weight in control. 3.Your sex life will be completely normal. There is no distortion in vaginal anatomy, neither you need vaginal dilatation. 4.Vaginal dryness can be there after removal of ovaries. You can apply lubricants during intercourse to combat dryness and burning. 5. Bioidentical hormonal replacement therapy can be given when the symptoms like severe hot flushing, bone pains, vaginal dryness, mood changes set in. They are to be taken under the prescription of a doctor and should be taken in the doses as prescribed. 6.Yes, I am an OBGYN specialist, and you can get back to me for all your health related issues. I am here to help you. Hope you found the answer helpful. Please do get back for further queries. Wishing you good health. Regards Dr Deepti Verma OBGYN specialist