Menopause After Hysterectomy: Understanding Symptoms & Management

Women who have a hysterectomy that involves removing the ovaries along with the uterus may suffer from menopausal symptoms. Menopause is the end of fertility and is a natural part of aging. Without ovaries, the estrogen levels in the body decrease, and this causes various symptoms that differ from woman to woman.

Hot Flashes

• Suddenly feeling hot is one of the main symptoms of menopause. The intensity and length of the hot flash varies with each woman.

Night Sweats

• Waking up hot and sweaty is usually the result of hot flashes.

Sleep Problems

• Some women are unable to fall asleep easily or have trouble staying asleep. Night sweating can also cause difficulties with sleeping.

Mood Swings

• The lower levels of female hormones can cause irritability, depression and anxiety. Symptoms can be severe, mild or nonexistent.

Loss of Sex Drive

• For some women the libido decreases after a hysterectomy. The sex drive can become erratic due to hormonal changes.

Vaginal Dryness

• Vaginal dryness can make sex painful. This is another result of lower estrogen levels.