Question And Answer # 92 - Re: Hysterectomy At 30 And Depression
Dear Dr. N, I had a partial hysterectomy last year due to severe atypical hyperplasia of the uterus . I am 30 years of age . I am experiencing symptoms of depression and weight gain. Is there relation to this and having a hysterectomy ? Would you recommend seeking treatment for this problem?
REPLY:
Hi,
I am sorry that you are having this problem. You do not mention if you are on HRT, so I assume you are not. I would read the section of the web site Ovarian Failure Following Hysterectomy as you may find it of interest and it is possible that it may be related to your situation.
I cannot comment specifically about what is going on with you as of course there is no way of knowing from here. I can however make some general comments based of the history you have provided. True psychiatric depression does not usually accompany menopause or hysterectomy. I do believe that many women experience what I would refer to as "depressed mood," a kind of decrease in the "joy of living" and that this is related to a decrease in hormone levels. When this is the problem the depressed mood is often responsive to appropriate HRT. If you are on HRT and are using a progestin daily this too causes depression in some women. In addition, undergoing a surgery at your age are is certainly capable of inducing depression. Regardless, there is no reason you should face this alone and I think you should consider seeing your doctor about any hormonal issues and a possible referral to someone for the depression.