Worried about depression!

I'm new here... and have a TAH et al scheduled in six weeks. ...
I still have a lot of questions/ concerns/fears...
Mostly, I've heard that the loss of hormones (yes, they are taking my ovaries out, too), can cause a big depression. I already take meds (celexa) for depression -- will it be much worse?
I know that you guys are not doctors, but has anyone been through this who already struggled with depression?

Thanks
Janet

Hi!

Though I have not had this experience, I have seen other women asking about this. You may want to ask this question on The Hormone Jungle forum. The women there are usually post-op and are dealing with HRT related concerns. Someone there should be able to share their experiences with you. Hopefully, someone will also pop in here, and be able to help with your question!

Hi, Janet,

I have suffered from chronic clinical depression since adolescence, and have taken antidepressants for many years (trazodone, and I've occasionally needed to take prozac, also.) I had a TVH/BSO seven months ago, and have been on HRT since the day of my surgery.

I have noticed no difference in my emotions since the surgery. I have been emotionally stable, and and haven't needed to change my antidepressant regime at all. I never experienced depression after my surgery. Other women may have different experiences, of course.

I feel MUCH better physically, though. For me, the hysterectomy improved my lifestyle, since I suffered from extremely heavy, nonstop vaginal bleeding for months, before the surgery.

This is only one woman's experience, but I hope it helps to reassure you a bit.

Best wishes,
princessh

I've been worried about the exact same thing--I'm even taking the same drug as you (Celexa at 60 mg/day). I haven't yet set a date. I'm still in the struggling-deciding process. I don't know what to do. My husband is really pressuring me to "just get it done with". Easy for him to say! Nobody's messing with his parts! I've read a lot of books about the bad effects the surgery leaves. Depression being only one of them. Lack of sexual desire is reported quite frequently. And my husband likes to be a frequent flyer. But the thing is...right now I feel so crummy half the time I don't feel like sex anyhow. So...what is going to be the difference? Plus...I've been worried about weight gain. Anyone have any experience with this? Was it harder to keep weight off? Seems like everyone I know that has had the Big H has struggles with weight. Good luck with your surgery! Hope things turn out great for you!

My fear too. I have been on Paxil for about 7 years. I have fibroids and ovarian cysts. Already had one myomectomy and one one tubal pregnancy. The surgery I can handle its the changes in
anxiety or panic attacks that are scaring me. I also have very bad Pms even with the Paxil. The point is pain free and pms free.
Should I be worried or will a hysterectomy help me???
I am only having about 6-7 symptom free days a month.
I would like to hear from Post-Ops experience.
Thanks
Kim Y.