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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, April 20, 2009

Healing from a Hysterectomy

Q: Dear Elena: Since my hysterectomy of 2yrs, I've been getting bladder infection accompanied by bacterial vaginosis. What can I do to prevent these from reoccurring?

A: The uterus secretes hormones and proteins but they are almost always in response to the cyclical hormonal changes from the ovaries or the prolonged high levels of hormones during pregnancy. Various prostaglandin hormones, cellular growth factors and other compounds are made in response to the changing hormones and the lining of the uterus (endometrium). After a hysterectomy (especially if you are pre-menopausal) hormones are no longer produced by the uterine tissue and that lead to hormonal changes which are not often discussed. As a side effect of surgery, frequently women develop bladder infections. Often they don’t last more then a few months after surgery.

Bacterial vaginosis can occur for many reasons but frequently it happens when vaginal flora is depleted or is out of balance. Hormonal changes after menopause frequently cause vaginal dryness and thinning of vaginal wall thus predisposing bacterial overgrowth to proliferate.

Vaginal suppositories with acidophilus are very useful to help relieve the symptoms of vaginosis. Suppositories with Goldenseal work similar to antibiotic topical treatments but may be ineffective especially if the condition is chronic.  Restoring normal flora to vagina is the first step to cure. Supporting immune system systemically is essential. Anything that will stimulate natural defenses would help both bladder and vaginal infections. I often use preparations with a variety of different herbal extracts and homeopathic remedies. There is a wide range of possibilities and they would all be helpful. There are some proteolytic enzymes, like bromelain and wobenzme that are known to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. Drainage remedies for the bladder are very important as well. I use berberis vulgaris homeopathic formulas and often include herbals such are corn silk.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist