How to get weight off after hysterectomy
In response to the other woman's dilemma about weight gain after hysterectomy, I too had a hysterectomy 2 years ago at age 40. I had large fibroids, soaking periods, was anemic, cold all the time, and incontinent from the pressure on my bladder.
My uterus was also prolapsed. I was not menopausal and I have my ovaries which are functioning normally.
I too, have gained 20 pounds since surgery. I exercise, eat light, and do strength training and have not been able to lose this weight. I've had my hormone levels checked including thyroid function; every thing is normal. Is weight gain normal after hysterectomy even with the ovaries left intact?
Yes. Many women put on weight even though the ovaries are left intact. Most lose the weight, some do not. Just as after pregnancy some women don't lose what they gained. There's no known metabolic reason I know of other than the decreased activity that follows surgery for several months.
Has our metabolism permanently slowed down?
I don't think so but activity, calorie expenditure is usually decreased.
Is this normal and what can we do about it?
There has to be permanent change in eating habits (less calorie intake) or increased exercise levels or both. I wish I knew a secret to do this!
How much dieting and exercising will bring about weight loss?
Each pound of fat permanently lost is 3500-4000 cal. Daily fluid shifts can be several pounds one way or the other. So you MAY have to be over 20000 calories in deficit to see a change on the scale.
That gets discouraging for many and the exercise is skipped or the calories don't get as restricted as much as they were. If you can decrease calories by 300 per day (no snacks or splurges allowed) and increase activity by 200 calories per day, you should not only quit gaining weight, but also lose weight. Remember this is permanent change and you may only lose about a pound or two a MONTH!
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