Why Do You Gain Weight After a Hysterectomy?

Weight gain after a hysterectomy occurs because of the immediate shift in hormones if the ovaries are removed. If the ovaries aren't removed, your transition into menopause will be more gradual although perhaps faster than it would have been if you hadn't had a hysterectomy.

Hormones

When ovaries are removed during this procedure, this is considered a complete hysterectomy. You will instantly become menopausal. The ovaries produce androstenedione, estrogen and progesterone. Once the ovaries are removed, these hormone levels drop drastically.

Belly Fat

One of the outcomes is that you will find that you are gaining weight around your waist. Women who go through natural menopause experience the same thing, according to Womenshealth.org.

Androgens

When you gain weight in your abdomen following a hysterectomy or natural menopause, this is because of a decrease in estrogen and an increase in male hormones called androgens. Men are inclined to gain weight in their midsection and this same thing will happen to women when their estrogen levels decrease.

Balance is Upset

When a hysterectomy is done, this can upset the balance of androgens in relation to estrogen. The same thing happens during natural menopause. There are more androgens, which can cause male characteristics, such as midsection weight gain along with hair growth on the face and a deeper voice, to occur.

Recommendations

Everydayhealth.com recommends that you exercise more, use weights to build up your body mass and cut back on simple carbohydrates that have a high glycemic index. In addition, increase your intake of protein.

Age and Metabolism

As you get older, your metabolism slows and you are likely to retain water. Both of these factors make weight gain and bloating likely. Try eating less.