Oophorectomy

Types and surgical approaches

Procedures vary by extent and technique. Common approaches include:

• Unilateral oophorectomy – removal of one ovary, often performed when disease affects only one side.
• Bilateral oophorectomy – removal of both ovaries, which causes an abrupt loss of ovarian hormones.
• Salpingo-oophorectomy – removal of an ovary together with its fallopian tube; frequently used in cancer surgery or risk-reducing operations.
• Techniques range from open abdominal surgery to minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic procedures.

Indications and common uses

Doctors recommend oophorectomy for several reasons: to treat or prevent ovarian disease such as ovarian cancer, to manage severe endometriosis or persistent ovarian cysts, to address ovarian torsion or infection, and as part of gender-affirming surgery. It may also be used to control hormone-driven conditions or as a prophylactic measure in people with high genetic risk for cancer. Surgical removal can affect the menstrual cycle and fertility.

Effects, risks, and follow-up

Removal of both ovaries typically induces immediate menopause, with symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and long-term risks including decreased bone density and possible cardiovascular effects. Hormone replacement therapy can mitigate some consequences but is not appropriate for everyone. Surgical risks include bleeding, infection, and damage to nearby structures. Fertility is lost if both ovaries are removed; fertility-preserving alternatives may be discussed when appropriate.

History, ethics, and notable controversies

Oophorectomy has a long surgical history and has been refined over decades. It has also been the subject of ethical debate: historical and proposed uses to suppress sexual drive in offenders or as punishment raise serious human rights and medical ethics concerns, and such approaches are widely controversial and restricted in modern practice (ethical debate).

Alternatives and decision-making

Alternatives include ovarian-sparing surgery, medical management, surveillance, or less extensive procedures. Decisions depend on age, desire for future fertility, underlying diagnosis, genetic risk factors, and weighing benefits against short- and long-term effects. Patients typically engage in shared decision-making with their clinical team and may seek counseling about hormonal and reproductive consequences.