The Basics
An oophorectomy is a surgery that removes one or both of a woman's ovaries. This procedure is primarily done when there is a problem with a woman's reproductive system. This includes treatment for conditions such as:
- ovarian cancer
- endometriosis (a condition where uterine tissue is found outside the uterus)
- ovarian cysts
Doctors may also recommend oophorectomies to women who are at higher risk of breast or ovarian cancer, such as those with a family history of these cancers. Depending on the extent of treatment required, some women may also have their uterus (hysterectomy) or fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy) removed at the same time.
This procedure is performed by a doctor in a hospital.
Risks and precautions
In general, surgery and the use of anesthesia come with some risks that are associated with factors like your health condition and what the surgery involves. Side effects are very rare but can include trouble breathing, reactions to the anesthetic, bleeding, infection, scarring, and death. Other potential risks associated with an oophorectomy are:
- damage to other organs
- tumor rupture, which can release cancer cells to other parts of the body
If you are having both ovaries removed and you have not had menopause yet, you will develop menopausal symptoms after this procedure. This includes hot flashes, memory problems, and vaginal irritation, but it can also involve more serious problems such as heart disease and osteoporosis.
If both of your ovaries are removed, you will not be able to become pregnant on your own. Ask your doctor about other options that are available to you if you want to have children.
Talk to your doctor if you are worried about any of the symptoms or side effects you experience after this procedure. It is important that you understand all the risks of complications and side effects of the procedure, and what you or your doctor can do to avoid them. Make sure that your doctor is aware of all your concerns.
Some people may experience complications or side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you after your procedure.
Before the test
To prepare for the procedure, you may have to undergo several tests such as an ultrasound or CT (computed tomography) scan. Your doctor may ask you to drink a laxative that will clear your bowels before the procedure. You may also be given an antibiotic to prevent any infection from occurring.
You may not be able to eat or drink before the procedure; it is important to follow the timing that your doctor recommended, otherwise you run the risk of the surgery being cancelled or postponed. In general, people are advised to not eat for 8 hours before the procedure, and most hospitals ask that you do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.
If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter (non-prescription) medications, supplements, or herbal products, make sure you inform your doctor or pharmacist. Ask them whether it is necessary for you to stop taking any of these medications and products before the procedure. It is also important to tell them if you have allergies to certain medications or have certain medical conditions.
Plan to have someone drive you home from the hospital.