Surgical Menopause

Surgical menopause refers to the onset of menopause as a result of surgery. These surgical procedures are:

• Hysterectomy
• Bilateral oophorectomy
• TAH/BSO (total abdominal hysterectomy/bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy)

A bilateral oophorectomy involves the removal of two ovaries, while salpingo has to do with the fallopian tubes via which the ovaries are attached to the uterus.

However, there are hysterectomies that remove the uterus but leave the ovaries intact. This does not usually fall under surgical menopause but the patient may be confused as to when menopause truly takes place since the period will stop.

Note that although the period stops with the removal of the uterus, the other symptoms of menopause will generally take place at the age they would have done naturally.

It has been observed nonetheless that some hysterectomy patients do indeed experience perimenopause at an earlier age than those who did not undergo the surgery.

During perimenopause, the 2 to 8 years leading to menopause, women experience erratic peaks and drops in reproductive hormonal levels. Progesterone and estrogen levels may fluctuate so wildly as to cause mood swings even before actual menopause occurs.

Also, menstrual cycles could either become longer or shorter. Certain cycles, at this time, will not involve ovulation – hence the difficulty in becoming pregnant.

Menopause - What to Do…

Women do have a choice on how much surgical menopause affects them physically and psychologically. It is very possible to ease the symptoms of menopause later on by taking preventive measures during the perimenopause stage.

One way is to eat healthy food. Start paying more attention to your diet. Menopause comes with a greater susceptibility to heart disease and osteoporosis. Therefore, eat foods that are low in fat but rich in fiber, as well as foods that are great calcium sources. If you happen to be lactose intolerant, then take lactose-free calcium supplements instead.

Eat more fruits and veggies. You can also eat whole wheat and grain products if they do not trigger any rheumatic or arthritic reaction. Stay away from caffeine and alcoholic beverages since these can cause hot flashes.

Engaging in regular workouts can also really help mood swings. Exercise not only releases enzymes and hormones that act as antidepressants, it also keeps your weight in check so that your joints and bones aren't taxed. Physical activity can also enhance sleep.

If you can't engage in prolonged physical routines 3 times a week as is usually recommended, then try 30-minute sessions during most days.

You may just discover that it is indeed possible to feel so strong and healthy so as to completely eliminate the symptoms of menopause.