A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. This procedure can cause changes in a woman’s hormone production, especially if the ovaries are removed at the same time. A shift or change in the body’s hormonal balance can have many symptoms, including a change in weight and losing weight after a hysterectomy can become increasingly difficult.
Weight loss after a hysterectomy is not very common, and usually only occurs if the hysterectomy is occurring because of a serious illness like cancer. Weight gain after a hysterectomy is far more common. If you’re a woman who will soon have a hysterectomy, here’s what you need to know about how your upcoming procedure could affect your weight and how you can lose weight after a hysterectomy.
Stomach Weight Gain After Hysterectomy
Weight gain after a hysterectomy can be frustrating. The more you know about the cause of your weight gain and what you can do to prevent it can help you take control of the situation after your medical procedure. While your weight gain may be frustrating, it is important there are multiple techniques that will help you lose weight after a hysterectomy.
What Causes Weight Gain After Hysterectomy?
Estrogen, the female hormone that controls reproduction, is closely tied to the organs in the female reproductive system. When those organs are removed, the level and balance of hormones in the body can experience a major shift. This change is often associated with the following symptoms:
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Sleep disruption. Many women find sleeping difficult when estrogen levels drop. Some find falling asleep more challenging, others experience night sweats and shorter sleep cycles than in the past.
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Reduced energy. Low energy occurs because of the loss of estrogen and because of the sleep disruptions. This reduction in energy levels can cause women to exercise less, which can lead to weight gain after a hysterectomy.
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Slower metabolism. Poor sleep and less energy often precipitate a slowing of the metabolic processes, which can, in turn, lead to weight gain after a hysterectomy.
Symptoms of Hysterectomy Weight Gain
After a hysterectomy, most women notice weight as it gathers on their waistline. They cannot see the fat accumulating around their internal organs like their liver and heart. This internal fat, known as visceral fat, puts women at risk for conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Typically, this weight gain after a hysterectomy occurs without any significant changes in lifestyle or habits. Fortunately, there is a way to lose weight after a hysterectomy
Lifestyle Changes That Will Help You Lose Weight After a Hysterectomy
Diet and exercise can help slow weight gain after a hysterectomy, although lifestyle changes may not be enough to curb all the effects of a hysterectomy. Changes that can help include:
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Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables, low in saturated fats
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Exercise on a regular basis, about 150 minutes per week (unless engaging in aerobic exercise, in which case 75 minutes per week may be adequate)
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Allow extra time for sleeping at night
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Hormone therapy
Hormone Therapy for Weight Loss After Hysterectomy
Hormone therapy after a hysterectomy is an effective way to reverse some effects of low estrogen. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) differs from traditional hormone replacement therapy in that it is customized for the individual, to more effectively restore the body’s natural hormones and help the individual return to their old self.
Contact the Hormone Doctors at Nava Health and Vitality Center
Seeking natural hormone replacement therapy after your hysterectomy? Contact the professionals at Nava Health and Vitality Center. We provide natural hormone replacement after hysterectomy, oophorectomy, menopause and perimenopause. To find out more about how you can benefit from bioidentical hormone replacement therapy after a hysterectomy, contact us to set up your appointment today.
Contact Nava Health and Vitality Center About Bioidentical Hormones and Weight Loss
Hormones and weight gain after 40 can go through rapid changes. The best HRT for menopause and natural aging should be administered by someone who is experienced in the medical field and who understands the body’s hormones. Call Nava Health and Vitality Center today or make an online appointment.