What are the possible side effects of hysterectomy at 40?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Undergoing a hysterectomy at age 40 can cause several side effects, including hormonal changes, physical complications, and emotional impacts. Common effects include early menopause symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness), increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease, pelvic floor weakness, mood changes, and shifts in sexual function. While many women find relief from the conditions that prompted surgery, understanding the potential risks is essential for informed recovery and long-term health planning.

If you're weighing a hysterectomy or noticing symptoms after one, don't guess your way through it. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify what you're experiencing, identify possible causes, and guide your next steps—whether that means self-care, a specialist visit, or urgent evaluation. It takes just minutes, requires no signup, and gives you personalized insights backed by medical research—so you can advocate for yourself with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn what causes hysterectomy-related symptoms Discover if your symptoms need care See whether hysterectomy complications are likely Find OTC relief for post-hysterectomy symptoms Find a gynecologist for hysterectomy concerns Understand medically sound home care after hysterectomy Find out if symptoms need urgent care

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Explanation

Understanding Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus. It may be performed for various reasons, including fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal bleeding, or cancer. Depending on the type of hysterectomy, the ovaries and fallopian tubes may also be removed.

Possible Side Effects

Hormonal Changes: If the ovaries are removed during the hysterectomy (a procedure known as oophorectomy), women may experience immediate menopause, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Even if the ovaries are preserved, hormonal balance may still be affected.
Physical Complications: As with any surgery, there are risks of complications, including:
Changes in Sexual Function: Some women report changes in sexual desire or function after a hysterectomy. This can be due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, or psychological factors.
Emotional and Psychological Effects: The emotional impact of losing the ability to conceive can be significant for some women. Feelings of loss, anxiety, or depression may arise, and support from mental health professionals or support groups can be beneficial.

Long-Term Considerations

Bone Health: Women who undergo early menopause due to the removal of ovaries may be at increased risk for osteoporosis and fractures. It is important to discuss bone health with a healthcare provider post-surgery.
Cardiovascular Health: Some studies suggest that early menopause may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. If you're experiencing unusual symptoms after your procedure, you can use our free symptom checker to help identify potential concerns before your next doctor's visit.

(References)

Clarke-Pearson DL, Geller EJ. Complications of hysterectomy. Obstet Gynecol. 2013 Mar;121(3):654-673. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e3182841594. PMID: 23635631.
Huang Y, Wu M, Wu C, Zhu Q, Wu T, Zhu X, Wu M, Wang S. Effect of hysterectomy on ovarian function: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ovarian Res. 2023 Feb 9;16(1):35. doi: 10.1186/s13048-023-01117-1. PMID: 36759829; PMCID: PMC9912518.
Turan A, Karabayır HB, Kaya İG. Examining the changes in women's lives after the hysterectomy operation: Experiences of women from Turkey. Arch Womens Ment Health. 2024 Dec;27(6):899-911. doi: 10.1007/s00737-024-01419-3. Epub 2024 Jan 6. PMID: 38183419; PMCID: PMC11579121.

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