I had a total hysterectomy in 1984 and have been taking premarin ever since. I did try to stop a few years ago but the sweats and loss of energy were really debilitating especially as I was working full time. I am now on the lowest dose. I realize there is a lot of controversy over HRT and if anyone had a history of breast cancer in the family I would advise them not to take it. For me however, I have had no ill effects and am glad I have had them. There was some weight gain but suspect it was as much "middle age spread" as it was any side effect from HRT.