A hysterectomy is a major surgery that removes a woman’s uterus. It’s one of the most common surgeries performed on women in the United States. Many women who get hysterectomies notice weight gain afterward and wonder if the surgery caused it. This article will examine the research on hysterectomy and weight gain and provide tips for maintaining a healthy weight after surgery.
Does hysterectomy cause weight gain?
There is no definitive answer on whether hysterectomy causes weight gain. Research findings are mixed. Some studies have found associations between hysterectomy and subsequent weight gain, while others found no connection. Here’s an overview of what the research says:
- A 2013 review found that most studies observed a 5-pound average weight gain in the first year after hysterectomy. But weight gain ranged widely in the studies from 0-32 pounds.
- A 2018 study of over 2,000 women found no significant difference in long-term weight gain when comparing women who had a hysterectomy to similar women who didn’t have the surgery.
- A 2019 study reported hysterectomized women gained an average of 7 pounds more over 14 years compared to women with uteruses.
- A 2020 study found an increased risk of becoming overweight or obese in the years following hysterectomy.
Overall, the evidence is mixed. Some women do appear more likely to gain weight after having their uterus removed. But not every woman gains weight following hysterectomy.
What causes weight gain after hysterectomy?
If hysterectomy does lead to extra pounds for some women, what’s the reason? A few different factors may be at play:
- Hormone changes. Women who have both ovaries removed during hysterectomy experience a drop in estrogen. This can increase appetite and fat storage.
- Loss of muscle mass. Hysterectomy is a major surgery requiring general anesthesia. After surgery, women may lose muscle mass and experience a slower metabolism.
- Less activity. Recovery times after hysterectomy vary. But most women reduce activity for 1-2 months post-op, which can result in weight gain.
- Changes in behavior. Some women may eat more or exercise less after surgery, possibly due to depression or changes in appetite-regulating hormones.
The weight gain likely has more to do with these indirect effects of hysterectomy rather than the uterus removal itself.
How much weight is gained after hysterectomy?
Most studies that found links between hysterectomy and weight gain observed average gains of 5-10 pounds over 1-2 years. Here is an overview of research on how much weight women gained after having a hysterectomy:
| Study | Amount of weight gained |
|---|---|
| 2013 review of 10 prior studies | Average of 5 pounds over 1 year |
| Study of over 5,000 women (2015) | Average of 7 pounds over 2 years |
| Study of over 22,000 women (2019) | Average of 7 pounds over 14 years |
Again, not every woman will gain weight. But for those who do, most studies show average gains of 5-7 pounds over the first 1-2 years after surgery.
Tips for avoiding weight gain after hysterectomy
If you want to proactively avoid packing on unwanted pounds after a hysterectomy, here are some tips:
Follow post-op guidelines
Don’t push yourself too soon after surgery. Take it easy and follow your doctor’s instructions for recovering properly. This includes sticking to any guidelines for nutrition, exercise, and rest.
Eat a healthy diet
Fuel up on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats after surgery. Avoid empty calories. If you have appetite changes, opt for filling, nutritious foods.
Stay active
Walking and light activity can often be resumed within weeks of surgery. Build back up to your normal exercise routine gradually. The better you recover your muscle strength and endurance, the easier it will be to maintain your pre-surgery weight.
Address hormone changes
If you had your ovaries removed, hormone replacement therapy can help counteract effects like increased appetite. Discuss options with your doctor.
Manage stress and depression
Seek psychological support if you’re struggling emotionally after hysterectomy. Depression can derail healthy lifestyle habits. Support groups can also help you stay motivated.
Conclusion
Research shows hysterectomy may increase the risk of mild weight gain for some women, especially over the first year after surgery. Average gains in studies are generally small, around 5-7 pounds. To help avoid packing on unwanted pounds, focus on recovering well, eating nutritious foods, staying active, managing hormones, and addressing any changes in mental health after hysterectomy. With proper self-care, many women are able to maintain their pre-surgery weight.