Evening everyone. This is my first post. I am three weeks post abdominal hysterectomy which took place just over two weeks after my formal diagnosis. Stage 1b. Unfortunately my pathway to diagnosis has been a rocky one as the day before my hysteroscopy was due to take place I was smashed into whilst driving by a driver who ignored a give way point. Resulting in broken bones for which I had surgery!
My main question is what does surgical menopause actually mean? Does it take you to a level of menopause you wouldn’t have reached if you’d not had the surgery? I am 53 and thought menopause was over but I am aware of people who’ve had the surgery older than me and experienced it. Part of my concern derives from the accident injuries seem to be more uncomfortable post the hysterectomy. And wondered if was coincidence or if the hysterectomy could have had an impact.
Hi FJ71
Welcome to the Womb group.
I am sorry to hear of your cancer and also your accident.
I am not surprised to hear that you are having more discomfort from the accidental injuries than the hysterectomy. For the vast majority of ladies on here the hysterectomy recovery goes well.
From my understanding the difference between a natural menopause and a surgical menopause is in a natural one the hormone levels drop gradually over time so any symptoms will develop more gradually. With a surgical menopause the hormone levels drop overnight so the symptoms can come on suddenly. My understanding is the symptoms are similar but it is the speed which makes the difference.
Surgical menopause | Royal Free London
I noticed a difference after the surgery. However I also had chemotherapy so sometimes it is hard to know what effected what. I would still say that I had more hormonal symptoms such as hot flushes.
I was advised that for me any HRT would not be a good idea as my cancer was hormone positive however if your symptoms do end up troubling you it is worth asking whether there is anything that you can have to help.
I wish you well with your continued recovery.
Jane
