Weight gain is a common side effect associated with a hysterectomy. Immediately following the surgery, as you recover and in the proceeding months, your decreased level of activity can add extra pounds to your frame. Speak to your doctor about ways to prevent weight gain after you've undergone a hysterectomy.
Expert Insight
A 2009 study published in the "Journal of Women's Health" determined that women were at high risk for weight gain following a hysterectomy. The first year after surgery is when weight gain is likely to occur. The study recommended using lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, to maintain or lose the weight associated with the surgery.
Causes
It's thought that weight gain experienced after a hysterectomy is not related to lower hormone levels, but caused instead by a decrease in physical activity. According to Dr. Wulf H. Utian, the sedentary lifestyle that may occur after a hysterectomy causes muscle loss and an increase in fat. As your metabolism slows, you may find it harder to lose the excess weight. Also, hysterectomy is a major surgery that requires four to six weeks of recovery time. During this time, your doctor may advise you to avoid certain activities, such as sports, driving, housework and lifting heavy objects. Since you must limit your activity level, weight gain may occur.
Prevention/Solution
To prevent weight gain post-hysterectomy, you should aim to create a 500-calorie-per-day deficit. Eat 300 fewer calories and increase your physical activity level to burn an extra 200 calories. To keep track of your daily food intake, write down all food items you consume, along with calorie counts. Work more physical activity into your day to increase calorie burn. Bicycle to work instead of walking or driving. Walk the dog instead of letting him out in the yard. Take strolls on your lunch hour instead of eating at your desk.
Considerations
According to a 2009 study published in "Menopause," if you're heavier, you're more likely to undergo a hysterectomy. To prevent post-hysterectomy weight gain, you should aim to control your weight prior to surgery. Eat a low-calorie diet made up of mostly fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, fat-free dairy products and whole grains. Also, make time for regular sessions of physical activity.
References
- "Journal of Women's Health"; A Prospective Study of Weight Gain After Premenopausal Hysterectomy; PG Moorman et al.; May 2009
- "Menopause"; Hysterectomy and Weight Gain; DM Fitzgerald et al.; Mar 2009
- Healthy Women: Ask the Expert
- Women's Health Resource: Hysterectomy: Post-operative Problems and Concerns
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Hysterectomy
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