Link between hysterectomy and depression?

After I had the surgery, I went for a checkup and the nurse put an estradiol patch on me and gave me a prescription for estradiol that the doctor had written out.  I asked her what would happen if I do not take the HRT.  She responded this way, "Let's just say that some women refer to the medication as their "anti-psychotic" pills!"  So now I'm beginning to wonder if maybe this is the cause for my worsening condition.

Also, I was wondering if any of you have had a hysterectomy or are going through or have went through the post-menopausal stage?  If so, how has it affected you?      

Hi Callie,  I read your post but am not clear on if you use the estradiol patch or not.  It sounds like you are not taking any hormones.  I don't know how old you are but if you are younger and not near true menopause age the lack of hormones is an imbalance in your body and can make you feel very down.  I have been through menopause and had the hot flashes, night sweats and moodiness.  But I am now 63 so am well past all of that and I feel fine now.  So you might want to reconsider that patch or possibly speak to your dr. about an anti depressant.  Women go thru menopause for many years before it all stops and you begin to feel like a normal person again.  And many women need hormones for a brief time to get through the bad phase.  Talk to your dr. and find out what will work for you.  I wish you the best and hope you will post again on how you are doing.

Aurora