The main reasons for a hysterectomy in women are endometriosis, uterine prolapse, and uterine fibroids. Hysterectomies are performed each year on approximately 600,000 women who develop hormonal imbalance after the operation after a hysterectomy. Hormones like estrogen fuel endometriosis and the growth of fibroids, which in turn may force women to have a hysterectomy.
Ovarian hormones such as progesterone and estrogen play an important role in protecting the health of organs such as the chest, brain, heart, and bones. Removing the ovaries with a hysterectomy can suddenly lead to ovarian hormone deficiency, which should only occur when women go through their natural menopause. Even if the ovaries are not removed, a hysterectomy can still reduce the production of ovarian hormones, leading to premature menopause.
How to avoid hormonal imbalance after a hysterectomy
In most cases, women with fibroids or endometriosis find relief after a hysterectomy. The downside is that most women have temporary or long-term hormonal imbalance. With proper treatment, hormones can be properly regulated, which improves their overall health. The different treatment options include:
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – After a hysterectomy, synthetic hormones are often prescribed. HRT drugs have been shown to be very effective in helping to balance hormones in the early stages after a hysterectomy.
• Supplements and Vitamins – After surgery, vitamins and natural supplements can be used to balance hormones. Herbs like wild yam, ginseng, dong quai, and black cohosh are widely used. Melatonin and vitamin E can also help regulate hormone levels by stimulating the body’s production of estrogen. Small doses of soy protein provide estrogen which reflects minerals and vitamins in the body and helps balance hormone levels.
• Cardiovascular training – Routine low to medium cardiovascular exercise three to four times a week helps maintain hormone levels. Be aware that heavy training can stimulate and increase hormone levels. Exercise helps relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression that are common after surgery. Before starting an exercise program after surgery, you should consult with your doctor to make sure that the surgical site is properly healed.
• Diet and Nutrition – A healthy way to avoid hormonal imbalance after surgery is to cut out processed foods that can raise or lower hormone levels. Avoid marbled and red meat as it contains high levels of hormones. Eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli, which contain a substance known as indole-3-carbinol (I3C) that metabolizes and produces diindolylmethane (DIM) . These substances help regulate estrogen and have anti-cancer effects, especially for breast cancer.
• Maintain a healthy weight -. If body weight is properly maintained, your body will not stimulate the overproduction of certain hormones. With excess fatty tissue, more estrogen can be produced in the body. Include phytoestrogens such as sunflower seeds, legumes, flax seeds, peas, soy foods, and bean sprouts as these herbal substances can naturally balance your hormones.
If you have a hormonal imbalance after a hysterectomy, this is a great place to start your lifestyle with exercise and a healthy, balanced diet. It is also important to get the support of your healthcare professional. Balance creates better well-being and ensures optimal health.