Oophorectomy

Oophorectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both ovaries and is often performed for various gynecologic or oncologic reasons. While it can be life-saving in some situations, the procedure also has significant implications for hormonal balance, fertility, and overall health.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what oophorectomy entails, its types, medical reasons, risks, recovery, and how to prepare for life after the procedure.

What Is an Oophorectomy?

Oophorectomy is the medical term for the surgical removal of one (unilateral oophorectomy) or both (bilateral oophorectomy) ovaries. Ovaries are small almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus, responsible for producing eggs and female hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

Removing the ovaries can have profound effects, including surgical menopause if both are removed, and infertility regardless of age.

Why Is Oophorectomy Performed?

Doctors may recommend oophorectomy for various reasons, including:

1. Ovarian Cysts or Tumors

• Noncancerous or cancerous growths that are large, painful, or at risk of rupture or torsion.

2. Ovarian Cancer

• A confirmed or suspected diagnosis often necessitates removal of one or both ovaries.

3. Endometriosis

• Severe endometrial tissue growth on the ovaries that doesn’t respond to other treatments.

4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

• Chronic infections that lead to damaged ovaries.

5. BRCA1 or BRCA2 Genetic Mutations

• Women with these mutations often opt for prophylactic (preventive) oophorectomy to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

6. Torsion (Twisted Ovary)

• A medical emergency where the ovary twists around ligaments, cutting off blood supply.

Types of Oophorectomy

The type of oophorectomy depends on the condition being treated and the extent of surgery required:

1. Unilateral Oophorectomy

Removal of one ovary. The other ovary continues to function, allowing menstruation and fertility to persist.

2. Bilateral Oophorectomy

Removal of both ovaries. This induces surgical menopause and ends natural fertility.

3. Salpingo-Oophorectomy

Removal of the ovary along with the fallopian tube. Can be unilateral or bilateral.

4. Prophylactic Oophorectomy

Performed to prevent cancer in high-risk women, often during a hysterectomy or other pelvic surgeries.

Surgical Approaches

Oophorectomy can be performed in several ways, depending on the medical condition, surgeon expertise, and patient preference.

1. Laparoscopic (Minimally Invasive) Oophorectomy

• Performed using small incisions, a camera (laparoscope), and surgical tools.

• Pros: Faster recovery, less pain, minimal scarring.

• Cons: Not ideal for large tumors or cancer.

2. Laparotomy (Open Surgery)

• A larger abdominal incision is made for better access, often used in cancer cases.

• Pros: Better visibility and control for complex procedures.

• Cons: Longer recovery time and hospital stay.

3. Robotic-Assisted Surgery

• A robotic system aids the surgeon for high precision.

• Pros: Enhanced accuracy and smaller incisions.

• Cons: Costly and not available everywhere.

Preparing for an Oophorectomy

1. Preoperative Evaluation

• Medical history, blood tests, imaging (ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan)

• Possibly a biopsy or tumor marker test (e.g., CA-125)

2. Medications

• You may need to stop certain medications like blood thinners or hormone therapy before surgery.

3. Bowel Preparation

• Required in some cases to clear the digestive tract.

4. Consent and Counseling

• Understand the fertility and hormonal implications.

• Emotional counseling is important, especially for younger women.

What Happens During Surgery?

• Performed under general anesthesia.

• Duration: Typically 1–2 hours.

• A laparoscope or open incision is used to remove the ovary/ovaries.

• If cancer is suspected, additional tissue samples or organs may be removed.

Recovery After Oophorectomy

1. Hospital Stay

• Laparoscopic: Usually discharged the same day or next.

• Laparotomy: May require 2–4 days in hospital.

2. Home Recovery

• Laparoscopic: 2–3 weeks

• Laparotomy: 4–6 weeks

• Avoid lifting, vigorous activities, and sexual intercourse for a few weeks.

3. Pain Management

• Prescription or over-the-counter medications.

• Cold compresses may help reduce swelling.

4. Emotional Recovery

• Support from family, therapy, or support groups may be necessary, especially if fertility or hormonal shifts are involved.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgery, oophorectomy carries some risks:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Injury to bladder, bowel, or blood vessels

• Early menopause (with bilateral removal)

• Blood clots

• Hormonal imbalances

• Osteoporosis (due to estrogen loss)

Life After Oophorectomy

1. Hormonal Changes

• With one ovary: Menstruation and fertility may continue.

• With both ovaries removed: You’ll experience surgical menopause—often more sudden and intense than natural menopause.

Common Symptoms:

• Hot flashes

• Night sweats

• Vaginal dryness

• Mood swings

• Sleep disturbances

• Decreased libido

2. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• Often recommended to manage menopausal symptoms unless contraindicated (e.g., in hormone-sensitive cancers).

• HRT can protect against:

  • Osteoporosis

  • Heart disease

  • Vaginal atrophy

3. Fertility Implications

• Women who haven’t completed their families may consider:

  • Egg freezing (before surgery)

  • Surrogacy (with previously frozen eggs)

  • Adoption

Emotional and Mental Health

Oophorectomy can impact mental health due to sudden hormonal shifts and the emotional aspect of losing reproductive organs.

Tips:

• Seek psychological counseling

• Join women’s health support groups

• Stay active and connected

• Practice mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques

Oophorectomy and Cancer Prevention

For women with a strong family history or genetic mutations (BRCA1/2, Lynch syndrome), oophorectomy significantly lowers the risk of ovarian and breast cancer.

Stats:

• Reduces ovarian cancer risk by 70–90%

• Lowers breast cancer risk by up to 50% in premenopausal women

Genetic counseling is essential before opting for prophylactic surgery.

Oophorectomy vs. Hysterectomy: What’s the Difference?

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Why is this surgery necessary?

• Will both ovaries be removed?

• How will this affect my fertility?

• What are the long-term health impacts?

• Is HRT right for me?

• What are the alternatives?

• How long will recovery take?

Alternatives to Oophorectomy

Depending on the condition, conservative treatments may be available:

• Watchful waiting (for small cysts)

• Hormonal therapy

• Cystectomy (removal of the cyst only)

• Ovarian drilling (for PCOS)

• Laparoscopic ablation (for endometriosis)

Always seek a second opinion before opting for surgery if time allows.

Oophorectomy is a major surgical procedure that can be life-saving or preventive, depending on the situation. However, it also carries risks and lifelong implications—particularly when performed before natural menopause.

Understanding your options, preparing thoroughly, and planning for life after surgery can make the process smoother and less overwhelming. From preserving fertility to managing hormones and emotions, every woman deserves personalized, compassionate care.

📌 Need help deciding?
Visit Sparsh Diagnostic Centre for expert consultations, hormone testing, and advanced imaging to guide your next step in women’s health.