Article: Ovaries Shut Down After Hysterectomy?

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Article: Ovaries Shut Down After Hysterectomy?
I had a hysterectomy but retained both of my ovaries. I have been experiencing some symptoms that are menopausal; hot flashes and night sweats. Can our ovaries stop functioning? How can I tell if they are shutting down?

Unfortunately, yes it can happen. Some studies suggest as many as 50% of women who undergo a hysterectomy, and retain their ovaries, will have them cease to function within 5 years. The good news with that is that even if they do shut down they will continue to provide us with small amounts of those much needed hormones.

Following a hysterectomy the blood supply to our ovaries can be damaged causing them to function abnormally which can result in decreased estrogen levels causing the menopause symptoms.

Sometimes though, after this surgery, our ovaries will go into temporary shock where they may take longer to resume functioning again. Some doctors may suggest short-term hormone replacement therapy to help *kick-start* your ovaries.

Symptoms such as hot flashes, sweats and vaginal dryness are usually related to lowered estrogen levels and are possible signs that our ovaries may be shutting down. Diminished libido, irritability or fatigue may signal the same thing. Because these symptoms can be related to other health issues, consulting your doctor is always the best "next step". Your physician can administer tests such as a vaginal smear and a blood test to detect your FSH levels.

A doppler ultrasound can also help reveal any damage that might have occurred to the ovarian blood-supply. If the blood supply is not damaged, then our ovaries are said to be able to still produce enough estrogen.

Keep a calendar and track your symptoms. Then make an appointment to see your doctor anytime you experience new symptoms or concerns.