Had total hysterectomy 3.5 years ago. Lately I've been having Wht feels like hot flashes. They last a few minutes. Then poof. They're gone. Why?? Do not take hormone replacement meds.
Hi.
Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, and they can persist for several years after a woman's last menstrual period. In the case of a total hysterectomy, where both the uterus and ovaries are removed, a woman might experience "surgical menopause." The abrupt decrease in hormones produced by the ovaries can lead to more intense and immediate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes.
A few potential explanations for your experience could include:
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Ovarian Hormone Fluctuations: Even after menopause, whether natural or surgical, there can still be some fluctuating levels of hormones that the body responds to.
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Non-Hormonal Causes: There are other potential triggers for hot flashes that aren't necessarily related to menopause. These can include certain medications, medical conditions, dietary triggers, or lifestyle factors such as stress.
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Duration of Hot Flashes: The duration and frequency of hot flashes can vary widely among women. Some women might experience hot flashes for a few years, while others can have them for a decade or longer.
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Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): You mentioned not taking hormone replacement meds. While HRT can be effective in reducing hot flashes, it's not for everyone and comes with its own set of risks and benefits to consider.
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Other Symptoms: If you're experiencing other symptoms in addition to the hot flashes, it could be indicative of another underlying issue. It would be essential to note any other symptoms and discuss them with a healthcare provider.