Navigating Menopause and Hysterectomy - with Dr. Dominguez-Bali
Menopause is a journey, and for some women, this journey includes having a hysterectomy. Dr. Alberto Dominguez-Bali, with decades of experience in women's health, sheds light on what to expect and how to handle the changes, especially when surgery comes into play.
“In the last 12-24 months, we are seeing a real change in the medical literature. Finally, regrading what really menopause is, and what really the management should be in this area.”
Perimenopause: The Prelude to Menopause
Perimenopause is that stretch of time before your final period where your body starts to change. Symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep issues pop up. It's different for everyone—some might start in their late thirties, others much later.
Hysterectomy's Twist on Menopause
If you're having a hysterectomy and your ovaries are removed, you're looking at menopause on fast-forward. This can be tough without the right prep. Dr. Dominguez-Bali can't stress enough the importance of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to ease into this transition.
“When you remove the ovaries and you don’t provide hormone replacement therapy before the surgery, the change is abrupt, the change is terrible, and the women will feel really bad in just 24-48 hours.”
Why is it is now common practice to remove the tubes?
“When you remove the uterus, and you remove the tubes then you need to remove them prophylactically. It doesn't matter that the tubes don’t have anything because now we know that 90% of cancers that were considered previously, ovarian cancer really developed in the tubes.”
The Lowdown on HRT
HRT isn't just about dodging hot flashes. It's about your long-term health—keeping bones strong, hearts healthy, and minds sharp. Starting HRT before a hysterectomy can make a world of difference, smoothing out what could be a rocky ride.
Life After Hysterectomy: Let's Talk Sex
Good news—sex might actually get better post-hysterectomy, especially if you've been dealing with pain or heavy bleeding. And keeping up an active sex life? It's key for a healthy pelvic floor. Think of it as a workout for your nether regions.
Progesterone: Not Always on the Guest List
Progesterone is part of HRT when you've still got a uterus to keep cancer at bay. But if the uterus is out of the picture, you might skip it and still reap HRT's benefits.
Mental Health Matters
If you're prone to the blues or anxiety, the sudden drop in hormones after a hysterectomy can hit hard. HRT can be a shield against these mental health challenges, so it's worth a chat with your doc.
“I have had women that in their late thirties have started to develop symptoms of menopause.”
Your Health, Your Voice
When it comes to HRT and hysterectomy, you've got to be your own advocate. Do your homework, bring questions to your doctor, and don't be shy about pushing for what you need.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're stepping into menopause naturally or a hysterectomy is accelerating the process, understanding your options, like HRT, can make all the difference. Stay informed, stay active, and don't hesitate to speak up for your health.
For more insights on managing menopause, check out MenoChannel and join the conversation with healthcare pros.
