The Effect of Hysterectomy on Hormone Levels
When the ovaries are removed after a hysterectomy with oophorectomy, the release of estrogen in the body is significantly lowered. This is the female hormone that plays a key role in many bodily functions, especially menstruation. When the body lacks estrogen, menstruation stops suddenly and menopause starts in those who are not in postmenopause. When the ovaries are not removed, it may increase the risk of ovarian failure. It is estimated that a hysterectomy without an oophorectomy is two times more likely to cause ovarian failure than those with an oophorectomy. This condition also leads to a gradual drop in estrogen over time. [4]