post hysterectomy depression

3 months post-hyst. saved my ovaries. But have depression like you wouldn't believe. Crying on way home from work...crying for no reason..overwhelmed..no oomph to do anything..all I want to do is sleep..struggling through the work day to keep up mood...Dr. says not in menopause yet and gave me antidepressants...if my estrogen level test is ok..can I still be in perimenopause? even though I have ovaries still? What is your opinion of natural remedies like black cobosh...etc..? Thanks. I value any experienced opinions..

Hi blondie47 and

We're happy you joined the Hystersisters community! There's a ton of solid information on the site, and the members have unlimited hugs to dispense and their personal sagas to share.

Since you are almost 45, it would seem perimenopause could be possible as an explanation for your low mood. But, you mention you had an estrogen-level test, and if that turned out okay, then I don't quite know what to think. My own personal opinion of black cohosh is that I wouldn't waste my money on it...instead, I would seek relief from prescribed HRT.

Anyway, I hope that with the help of your doctor, you start feeling better very soon.

Many s and Best Wishes,

Hi blondie47
I also kept my ovaries, but afterward could tell I was having hormones fluctuating. My dr did the fsh test to see if they were still producing estrogen and it says they are but that I am most definitely in perimenopause. I have problems with mild hot flashes and brain fog and have struggled with some depression since my sugery too.
I'm 52 so a little ahead of you in the game maybe, but we are all different in when it happens. I started taking a low dose of estrogen and progesterone. They are bioidenticals and have helped a lot.
I haven't really tried any of the natural things. Have you looked in the No-Hormone Desert Oasis. This forum is for those who either can't or don't want to use regular hrt.

My opinion is that yes you can be in perimenopause. You should listen to your body and how you feel. There are a lot of symptoms that indicate your body is changing. You might want to look at the lists in the Too Much Estrogen, Too Little article. It might help you see if there are other things going on that might be hormone related.
I hope the antidepressants will help you too. This is a tough thing to deal with and with so many good meds to help you shouldn't have to. I hope you will feel better soon.
's,Rita