Total hysterectomy and weight gain

I am scheduled for a TVH on March 1st. I am currently on b/c pills (Loestrin) and dr. has informed me that I will wake up in recovery with an estrogen patch. Does anyone have any experience going from a b/c pill to patch - any recommendations? Does placement make a difference? Would it be possible to stay on the b/c pill as it has worked for me for years or once the ovaries are shut down is there way too little estrogen in the pill to prevent menopausal problems. How about weight gain - does the body suddenly morph when the ovaries are removed. My Dr. paints a very rosy picture, but I would like some input from someone that has been there, done that. Thanks.

Hi,

I was put on the patch after surgery and it controlled my hot flashes, moods, etc. I did not gain weight, but did watch what I ate and exercised starting at 6 weeks post-op. I wear the patch (.1 vivelle dot)on my tummy and rotate it around everytime I put a new one on. Some ladies like to wear it on their hips as well.

I took bc before surgery, but after surgery the doctors like to give a lower dose of estrogen and a more natural form like estradiol. The body doesn't need a strong hormone since we don't have to worry about cycles anymore. It is a good idea to take the least amount as possible that will help with symptoms without giving side effects.

I would research as much as you can about hrt on this site and from books and on the web so you can discuss this with the dr.

s

Thanks for sharing your experience. One other question, did you experience hair loss with the hormonal fluctuations after your hyst?

Hi,

I haven't had surgery yet but was put on the patch last year because b/c pills didn't work to control my bleeding. I have the ortho evra patch it's small and square. I tried it on my lower back but found it to be pretty itchy. I wear it now on my lower stomach. No itching around the patch since I changed the location. It did help with the mood swings for a couple of months. It also helped a little with the bleeding and cramping (most of the cause for mood swings After a couple of months though, things got worse again. Hope this helps some.

Hugs!!
Debbie