26/10/2025
Myth: Having a hysterectomy will make me enter the menopause.
No!
A hysterectomy, without removing the ovaries, does not mean you will enter the menopause immediately. A hysterectomy is a specialised surgery, involving removal of the uterus (womb) and usually the cervix, ideally through a minimally invasive approach. The uterus does not produce any of the hormones required to maintain your health. This job is done by the ovaries. Although removing the uterus will stop the monthly bleed (and the symptoms associated with menstruation, much to the relief of many patients), the ovaries can be retained. By preserving the ovaries, they should continue to produce hormones such as estrogen which are very important for your overall health. It’s also important to understand that by leaving the ovaries behind, you may still experience symptoms related to ovulation, such as pain, mood swings, bloating and breast tenderness.
If both ovaries are also removed, this can trigger what is called surgical menopause. This causes a sudden drop in estrogen, which may lead to severe symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and changes in libido. The onset of menopause in this case would be more immediate compared to the natural menopause, which typically occurs in the late 40s to early 50s.
There is evidence to suggest however that having a hysterectomy can alter ovarian function, likely due to disruption to the ovarian blood supply, which may lead to an earlier menopause. However, this is likely only 1 or 2 years earlier than expected. So, if you were going to enter the menopause at the age of 52, after a hysterectomy, it may occur closer to the age of 50. It’s also important to understand that often the symptoms of the menopause, like hot flushes and mood changes occur many years before the period stops. In fact, symptoms of the menopause occur on average 4 years before the final period, and even as much as 8 years! If you have a hysterectomy and soon after experience symptoms of the menopause, it could be just a coincidence. The good news is there are simple, safe and effective treatments for the symptoms of menopause. Not having a uterus means the treatment options are even simpler and safer.
Every person’s situation is unique and detailed discussions should be made to ensure you are getting the right operation for the right reasons. Feel free to come see me for a consultation to discuss your unique situation and we can tailor make a plan that suits you.