Hormonal and emotional changes after hysterectomy
One of the most significant effects of hysterectomy is related to hormonal changes, especially if performed together with an oophorectomy, which is the removal of the ovaries. The ovaries are responsible for producing female sex hormones, mainly estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, bone density, cardiovascular health and other processes in the body.
When the ovaries are removed, the woman’s body enters into what is known as surgical menopause. This sudden change in hormone levels can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, v@ginal dryness, mood swings and decreased libido.
Even in cases where the ovaries are not removed, hysterectomy can affect hormone function. Some women experience a gradual decrease in hormone production due to the disruption of the connection between the uterus and ovaries.
