Body Changes

Just curious. How does your body change after a hysterectomy/menopause? Obviously, the uterus is gone. I am wondering if there are general changes like weight gain or dry skin that occur after a hysterectomy. I am 43 and wrinkles and gray hair have already made their appearance. Will I age more quickly without my ovaries?

Really, I am not vain. My mind is just wandering while I wait to visit the castle. I actually don't mind my softening body. It feels gentle and kind instead of harsh. DH doesn't seem to mind either. hee hee

Anyway, what do you think?

I am only eight weeks out and am not on hormones. As of yet the only thing I have noticed is my skin is dryer. I was afraid I would go in 51 (I'm older than you!) and leave the hospital 90. I realize I only have two months under my belt, but so far so good.

Hi Chris,
I have wrinkles and gray hair too. My Mom and MIL (sisters too) comment all the time about coloring the gray. They claim it will make be look 10 years young. Probably would do it if it made me feel 40 years younger. I went through surgical menopause after my TAH, ASC(prolapse repairs with mesh) , and TVT. (I kept my ovaries). I have a hereditary connective tissue disorders (EDS) so I think I age faster than most women. I also have a hereditary skin condition where my skin is very dry, do not sweat, etc. My MIL was saying you will have night sweats and hot flashes. I kept my ovaries so I don't know if she was wishes awful things upon me or what! I think I have those hot flashes. But nobody told me about super glued eyes (so very dry hard to open at times, sandpaper), painful crutch, extreme dry skin, tons of hair loss, joint/bone pains, etc. I have not gain weight yet but just had surgery this Feb (also still healing, very slow healer due to EDS). At first thought a thyroid issue or perhaps the sleeping potion they used during the 4+ hours of surgery. But no hormone issue instead.


But I did notice something odd.....could be my imagination.... my butt seems flatter and my lower stomach larger. Like my butt got put in the front and my stomach push to the back. I asked my doctor about that swelling belly and if I should have it still; she claims no. But if you (secretly) go look at the "after forum", they say it is common even sometimes after 6 months. You are not suppose to look before you surgery. I secretly looked!


Everyone is different so if you are keeping your ovaries perhaps they will continue to function.


Sorry I could not help you more since I'm a rookie with menopause. Yes a softer body would be so nice. Good luck and best wishes for your surgery and recovery.


Take Care.