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Anxiety After Hysterectomy With Ovaries Kept Intact

Struggling with anxiety after a hysterectomy even though your ovaries were preserved? Learn why it happens, symptoms to watch for, and how to manage it effectively.

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Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 8th Jul, 2025

Introduction

If you've had a hysterectomy but kept your ovaries, you might be surprised to find yourself struggling with anxiety afterward. Many women assume that since their ovaries are intact, their hormones will remain balanced, and they won’t experience emotional changes. However, anxiety after a hysterectomy—even with ovaries preserved—is more common than you might think.

In this article, we’ll explore why this happens, what symptoms to watch for, and practical ways to manage anxiety post-surgery.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Advice

Ms. Moumita Ganguly, Psychologist

Ms. Moumita Ganguly

Psychologist

13 Years • B.ED(Special) Visual Impairment , PG.Diploma in Rehabilitation psychology

Kolkata

M’s Clinic, Kolkata

recommendation

83%

(125+ Patients)

1000

1000

Why Does Anxiety Happen After Hysterectomy If Ovaries Are Kept?

Even though your ovaries continue producing hormones after a hysterectomy, the surgery itself can still disrupt your emotional well-being. Here’s why:

1. Hormonal Fluctuations – While your ovaries still produce estrogen and progesterone, the surgery can temporarily affect blood flow to them, leading to short-term hormonal imbalances. This can trigger mood swings, anxiety, or even symptoms similar to menopause.

2. Psychological Impact – A hysterectomy is a major surgery, and the emotional adjustment can be significant. Some women feel a sense of loss, grief, or worry about changes in their bodies, femininity, or sexual health.

3. Surgical Stress on the Body – Any major surgery puts stress on the body, which can temporarily increase cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, contributing to anxiety.

4. Lack of Awareness – Many women aren’t warned about the possibility of post-hysterectomy anxiety, making it feel unexpected and isolating.

Common Symptoms of Anxiety After Hysterectomy

If you're experiencing any of the following after your surgery, it could be anxiety:

  • Persistent worry or fear

  • Racing thoughts

  • Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

  • Irritability or mood swings

  • Heart palpitations or shortness of breath

  • Panic attacks; sudden intense fear with physical symptoms

  • Avoiding social situations

If these symptoms last for weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s important to seek help.

How to Manage Anxiety After Hysterectomy?

The good news is that anxiety after hysterectomy is manageable. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Give Yourself Time to Heal

Your body has undergone a major change, and recovery takes time—both physically and emotionally. Be patient with yourself.

2. Stay Connected

Talk to friends, family, or a support group. Many women find comfort in sharing their experiences with others who’ve been through the same thing.

3. Practice Relaxation Techniques

  • Deep breathing practices, such as inhaling for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for six

  • Mindfulness and meditation, which may help calm the mind

  • Gentle yoga or stretching routines that encourage relaxation

4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

  • Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or light workouts

  • Focus on nutritious meals that include whole foods and healthy fats

  • Limit intake of sugar and caffeine, which may heighten anxiety

  • Establish a bedtime routine to support restful sleep

5. Consider Therapy or Counseling

If anxiety feels overwhelming, a therapist can help you process emotions and develop coping strategies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety.

6. Check Hormone Levels

If symptoms persist, ask your doctor about checking your hormone levels. Even with ovaries intact, some women experience imbalances that may need attention.

7. Medication (If Needed)

In some cases, short-term anti-anxiety medication or hormone therapy may be recommended. Always consult a doctor before starting any medication.

When to Seek Professional Help

You may want to speak with a healthcare professional if anxiety is:

  • Severe or worsening over time

  • Causing panic attacks

  • Affecting your work, relationships, or daily life

  • Leading to depression or hopelessness

Prompt medical attention might improve both your emotional and physical recovery.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Anxiety following a hysterectomy—even with ovaries preserved—may be more common than often discussed. Emotional fluctuations may be influenced by hormonal, psychological, and physical factors, all of which deserve compassionate attention.

Recognising what you are experiencing and taking steps toward recovery might make a meaningful difference. Support is available, and you don’t have to navigate this alone.

If you are struggling with anxiety or need personalised care, consider booking an appointment with a psychologist or women's health expert through Apollo 24|7.

Consult Top Psychologists

Ms. Moumita Ganguly, Psychologist

Ms. Moumita Ganguly

Psychologist

13 Years • B.ED(Special) Visual Impairment , PG.Diploma in Rehabilitation psychology

Kolkata

M’s Clinic, Kolkata

recommendation

83%

(125+ Patients)

1000

1000

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Advice

Mr. Aman Kochhar, Psychologist

Mr. Aman Kochhar

Psychologist

2 Years • MA - Psychology, Post Graduate Diploma In Guidance and Counselling

New Delhi

Well-mind Counselling, New Delhi

1000

Ms. Mansi Kothari, Psychologist

Ms. Mansi Kothari

Psychologist

7 Years • MA - Psychology

Gurugram

Soulful, Gurugram

recommendation

97%

(75+ Patients)

2250

1800

No Booking Fees

Ms. Moumita Ganguly, Psychologist

Ms. Moumita Ganguly

Psychologist

13 Years • B.ED(Special) Visual Impairment , PG.Diploma in Rehabilitation psychology

Kolkata

M’s Clinic, Kolkata

recommendation

83%

(125+ Patients)

1000

1000

Ms Rupa Talukdar, Psychologist

Ms Rupa Talukdar

Psychologist

28 Years • PGD in Rehabilitation psychology, Phd

Kolkata

Mind's Eye, Dr Rupa Talukdar, Kolkata

1800

1800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Keerti Singh, Psychologist

Dr. Keerti Singh

Psychologist

5 Years • BA, MA, Ph.D Psychology

Kolkata

Serenity Mindcare (A Neuropsychiatry Clinic), Kolkata

2000

Consult Top Psychologists

Mr. Aman Kochhar, Psychologist

Mr. Aman Kochhar

Psychologist

2 Years • MA - Psychology, Post Graduate Diploma In Guidance and Counselling

New Delhi

Well-mind Counselling, New Delhi

1000

Ms. Mansi Kothari, Psychologist

Ms. Mansi Kothari

Psychologist

7 Years • MA - Psychology

Gurugram

Soulful, Gurugram

recommendation

97%

(75+ Patients)

2250

1800

No Booking Fees

Ms. Moumita Ganguly, Psychologist

Ms. Moumita Ganguly

Psychologist

13 Years • B.ED(Special) Visual Impairment , PG.Diploma in Rehabilitation psychology

Kolkata

M’s Clinic, Kolkata

recommendation

83%

(125+ Patients)

1000

1000

Ms Rupa Talukdar, Psychologist

Ms Rupa Talukdar

Psychologist

28 Years • PGD in Rehabilitation psychology, Phd

Kolkata

Mind's Eye, Dr Rupa Talukdar, Kolkata

1800

1800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Keerti Singh, Psychologist

Dr. Keerti Singh

Psychologist

5 Years • BA, MA, Ph.D Psychology

Kolkata

Serenity Mindcare (A Neuropsychiatry Clinic), Kolkata

2000

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