Surgical Menopause
What is it?
The Surgical Menopause is the removal of both of our ovaries. Our ovaries contain and produce our eggs and sex hormones, once they are gone, we can’t conceive or produce these hormones naturally.
Removing both ovaries before we have completed the menopause often causes more significant symptoms. Younger women under the age of 40 who have their ovaries removed can develop more significant symptoms and long-term health issues.
Planning Your Surgery?
Ensure you talk to the Gynae Team about your Post Op treatment. If you can have HRT, discuss this before surgery and ask if you can start on it immediately after your operation. If you still have your womb, you will need Oestrogen and Progesterone.
After Effects of Surgical Menopause.
During a natural menopause female hormones gradually decline but when your ovaries are removed the effects are often described like “Falling off a Cliff”. However, everyone experiences the effects differently and we all cope in different ways.
Some women have told me they have hormonally “crashed” within 24 hours and a few ladies 3-4 months later.
HRT and Medication.
For most women it’s advised they have HRT until the natural age of menopause; 51/52 years. This reduces the symptoms of having low or no female hormones. It should always be tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle. HRT replaces Oestrogen, Progesterone (if you have a womb) and testosterone.
It also:
Reduces your risks of developing Cardio Vascular Disease.
It increases the “Toughness” of your bones reducing your risks of fractures. “Fragility” fractures are related to minor knocks or falls that should not be forceful enough to break bones. HRT strengthens muscles and muscle mass.
Dementia. For many years the research was inconclusive but now we know there is a greater probability it improves thinking/cognition and overall function of our brain.
Urine infections and vaginal dryness. Vaginal Oestrogens are very effective and can be taken long term, with or without other HRT.
Non Hormonal medication such as Fezolinetant. This controls temperature zones in your brain stopping and reducing hot flushes and night sweats.
Anti-depressant medication can reduce some symptoms when HRT isn’t advised or for women who choose non hormonal medication instead.
Lifestyle Changes
Mediterranean style diet.
Drinking alcohol within ranges.
Plenty of water.
Stop smoking
Good mental attitude and activities to reduce stress, improve mood/coping.
Exercise, especially strength and resistance training. This has been known to reduce our symptoms, make us stronger and healthier and helps our mental health.
How can I help?
If you are booked in for routine surgery and would like to discuss your HRT options before your surgery, I can help you.
If you have had surgery and can have HRT but unsure what you need, I can advise you on what you need based on your surgery and health.
If you’re on HRT and would like to know if you could have Testosterone, I can arrange blood tests and prescribe it for you. That includes Androfeme (female body identical) Testosterone.
Testosterone is very important for increasing our libido, desire, energy and memory!
How To Book?
Please go to my website and book a “New Client 1 hour Appointment”
Or email me and we’ll chat on the phone first.
Best wishes
Diane X
