weight gain and no Umph!!

I had a radical Hysterectomy, the whole lot Ovaries, cervix, & fat pad & kitchen sink!! This was on Dec 18th 2012, I had a tumour and Dermoid cyst. Now in July I have gained nearly 12lbs although I have cut back, I watch what I eat every day!! I am totally embarrased over the look of my tummy, I look pregnant, at least 5 months. I know I should be happy I have a scar from pubic bone to belly button as it turned out everything was benign,but I amnot.. I am totally shattered, day and night, I am not on HRT. can't find one that is suitable for me yet, but I am trying, but I feel yuk daily I have what I call no UMPH!!

I also have the most itchy skin my scalp seems as if I have lice as I scrath till it bleeds this is also the case of my back, it is shredded. My bowel doesn't work without tablets, and I have difficulty passing water it now trickles for eons, I have had no one to say this is because- the Dr just says "well at least you have not got cancer" as do my family, but I feel so down all the time, tearful mostly, what can I do??

Hi Annie, I don't really have any advice but lots if empathy. Most women struggle with menopause when it occurs gradually and naturally. I can only imagine what a shock it is to your body when it occurs suddenly and medically, not to mention the emotional toll dealing with it all, and the cancer, is taking on you. Hopefully you'll find an HRT that will work for you and that things will settle down over time. Try to go easy in yourself. And perhaps try explaining to your family why comments like "at least you don't have cancer" are hurtful. While if course I imagine you are relieved about that you still need to deal with the present difficulties and they are really taking their toll on you. Wishing you all the best