5+ years post hysterectomy: Weight gain - will I be battling this for the rest of my life now?

I had about 35-40 pounds post op weight gain, over the first 12 months. My energy level had decreased substantially. I worked diligently to manage my dietary intake and lost the 40 pounds over 6.5 months, kept it off for 2 years, and had manageable energy levels. Last year I lost all kinds of energy all over again, went through some feelings of depression (which are not like me at all) and I didn't realize it at the time. I can see now, that I had low energy and poor sleep habits, but I am completely bummed about the weight gain. Will I be battling this for the rest of my life now? I am 43, had surgery in Oct 2009, and I have always been a thin/in-shape person... not sure what to do at this point...

	Quote:
Originally Posted by letsdolunch909 I had about 35-40 pounds post op weight gain, over the first 12 months. My energy level had decreased substantially. I worked diligently to manage my dietary intake and lost the 40 pounds over 6.5 months, kept it off for 2 years, and had manageable energy levels. Last year I lost all kinds of energy all over again, went through some feelings of depression (which are not like me at all) and I didn't realize it at the time. I can see now, that I had low energy and poor sleep habits, but I am completely bummed about the weight gain. Will I be battling this for the rest of my life now? I am 43, had surgery in Oct 2009, and I have always been a thin/in-shape person... not sure what to do at this point...

There might be something else going on besides hysterectomy-related problems, given that your surgery was over five years ago. And in addition from your description, this sounds unusual for you. I would suggest that you talk to your doctor about this change, also noting any other symptoms you may have noticed.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by letsdolunch909 I had about 35-40 pounds post op weight gain, over the first 12 months. My energy level had decreased substantially. I worked diligently to manage my dietary intake and lost the 40 pounds over 6.5 months, kept it off for 2 years, and had manageable energy levels. Last year I lost all kinds of energy all over again, went through some feelings of depression (which are not like me at all) and I didn't realize it at the time. I can see now, that I had low energy and poor sleep habits, but I am completely bummed about the weight gain. Will I be battling this for the rest of my life now? I am 43, had surgery in Oct 2009, and I have always been a thin/in-shape person... not sure what to do at this point...

Aw, I'm so sorry you're experiencing this. I know how it feels. Have you gone to an endocrinologist & had your thyroid checked? I gained 20-30 lbs a few years ago (I'm 45 now) & it turned out I had an autoimmune syndrome that causes low thyroid function (hypothyroidism). Now I'm on synthetic thyroid hormone replacement & my weight is manageable. I also work out a TON. I went down 2 pant sizes.
Good luck to you! I hope you can resolve that because it is hard on your self-esteem.
(Low thyroid also causes fatigue & brittle hair)

I'm afraid of weight gain, lord I cannot weigh anymore than I do now!!! 13 days post op. I feel awesome at 15-20 lbs lighter than now. I'm talking to my Dr. about a weight loss program he recommended before surgery. I don't know if it's against the rules to mention it?? google CONTRAVE. Suppose to help with well being and craving of all kinds.