Dr Nick Fuller
Leading Obesity Expert at the University of Sydney and founder of Interval Weight Loss.
Weight gain after a hysterectomy isn’t just in your head—it’s a real concern for many women. A study comparing 236 women who had hysterectomies with 392 women who didn’t found that those who had the surgery gained about twice as much weight on average. Around 23% of women with hysterectomies gained over 10 pounds, compared to 15% of the control group.
This isn’t just about the surgery itself—hormonal changes, a slowing metabolism, and lifestyle shifts all play a role. Women who were already overweight or had a history of weight fluctuations were at an even higher risk.
So, does this mean weight gain is inevitable? Not necessarily. Let’s explore your options and look at what you can do to stay on track.
Weight gain after a hysterectomy is common and often linked to hormonal shifts, metabolism changes, and lifestyle factors. Below are six reasons it happens.
If your ovaries were removed during the surgery (oophorectomy), your body experiences a sudden drop in oestrogen. This can lead to increased fat storage, especially around the abdomen. Even if your ovaries remain, hormone levels may fluctuate, affecting metabolism and weight.
Metabolism naturally slows with age, but some women notice this happening sooner after a hysterectomy. This may be due to hormonal changes, reduced muscle mass, or lower activity levels during recovery, all of which can make weight gain more likely.
After surgery, movement is limited, which can lead to muscle loss and reduced calorie burn. Reduced activity levels post-hysterectomy can contribute to weight gain if lifestyle adjustments aren’t made.
Hormonal shifts can influence hunger and cravings. Some women experience an increase in appetite, while others turn to food for comfort during recovery, leading to higher calorie intake.
A hysterectomy can be emotionally challenging, triggering stress and anxiety. Elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone) have been linked to increased fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area.
Hormonal fluctuations, night sweats, and discomfort post-surgery can interfere with sleep. Poor sleep is associated with weight gain, as it affects hunger hormones like ghrelin and leptin, leading to increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods.
Fatigue – Low energy levels due to hormonal changes and recovery.
Mood Swings – Emotional ups and downs, often linked to oestrogen decline.
Vaginal Dryness – Reduced oestrogen can affect vaginal tissue health.
Hot Flashes – Common if the ovaries were removed, similar to menopause symptoms.
Night Sweats – Hormonal fluctuations can cause excessive sweating during sleep.
Insomnia – Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to hormonal shifts.
Losing weight after a hysterectomy is possible with the right approach. Here are some practical tips to get started.
Prioritise whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fibre-rich carbs. Eating a well-rounded diet can help manage weight and support hormonal balance post-hysterectomy.
Not sure what to eat? These recipes highlight the best foods for the IWL plan to help you stay on track.
Strength training helps preserve muscle mass, while cardio supports heart health and calorie burn. A mix of both can help counteract post-surgery weight gain.
Mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help regulate cortisol levels and prevent stress-induced weight gain.
A doctor or dietitian can help create a personalised plan for weight management, hormone balance, and overall well-being post-hysterectomy.
Looking for safe and effective ways to lose weight after a hysterectomy? These IWL program guides offer practical tips and strategies to help you stay on track.
Weight gain after a hysterectomy isn’t just about diet and exercise—hormonal shifts, metabolism changes, and lifestyle factors all play a role. The key is finding an approach that works for you to maintain a healthy weight and feel your best. If you’re struggling, consider speaking with a healthcare professional for tailored advice.
Dr Nick Fuller is the founder of Interval Weight Loss and is a leading obesity expert at the University of Sydney with a Ph.D. in Obesity Treatment. Dr Fuller is also the author of three best-selling books and his work been published in top ranked journals in the medical field, including JAMA, Lancet and American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.