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Oopherectomy
An oophorectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both ovaries. Sometimes the fallopian tubes are also removed at the same time (salpingo-oophorectomy). If both ovaries are removed, you will no longer produce eggs, and your natural supply of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone will stop.
If you are premenopausal, removal of both ovaries causes an immediate menopause.
This can have significant effects on your health and wellbeing, which your gynaecologist will discuss with you before surgery.
Your gynaecologist may recommend oophorectomy to:
Remove ovarian cysts that cannot be safely treated in other ways
Treat or reduce the risk of ovarian cancer
Manage endometriosis or severe pelvic pain when other treatments have not worked
Reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in women with a strong family history or genetic risk factors (such as BRCA mutations)
Treat serious infections or damage affecting the ovaries
What's involved in an oophorectomy?
The type of oophorectomy surgery depends on your condition, age, and overall health.
The operation usually takes 1–2 hours and is performed under general anaesthetic.
Laparoscopic (keyhole) oophorectomy:
Laparoscopic (keyhole) oophorectomy involves several small cuts are made in the abdomen, and surgical instruments are used to remove the ovary. This method usually means quicker recovery.
Open abdominal surgery (laparotomy)
Open abdominal surgery (laparotomy) involves a larger incision in the lower abdomen is sometimes necessary, especially for large masses or when cancer is suspected.
Find A Specialist
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Dr Kate van Harselaar
Gynaecologist
