Introduction
Ovary removal, medically known as oophorectomy, is a surgical procedure in which one or both ovaries are taken out. The ovaries are a part of the female reproductive system. They make eggs (ova) and produce important hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. This surgery may be done alone or together with the removal of the fallopian tubes (called a salpingo-oophorectomy). The decision to remove ovaries is taken carefully by doctors based on the woman’s health needs. Oophorectomy is used to treat or prevent conditions like ovarian cysts, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, tumours, or cancer. For some women at high risk of ovarian or breast cancer (like those with a BRCA gene change), removing the ovaries is a preventive step. The surgery helps remove unhealthy tissue and can improve quality of life, but it also has effects on hormones and fertility. That’s why doctors and patients discuss all options, risks, and long-term effects before deciding.
Who May Need Ovary Removal?
Oophorectomy might be recommended for women who:
- Have ovarian cysts that do not go away or are suspicious
- Are diagnosed with ovarian cancer or tumors
- Have severe endometriosis causing pain or infertility
- Suffer from persistent pelvic pain not relieved by other treatments
- Are at high risk of ovarian or breast cancer (e.g., BRCA gene carrier)
- Have other gynecological conditions where removal is the safest option
Your doctor reviews your symptoms, test reports, and overall health before suggesting ovary removal. It’s not always the first choice; many conditions start with less invasive treatments first.
Types of Ovary Removal
Ovary removal can be done in different ways depending on the situation:
1. Laparoscopic Oophorectomy (Minimally Invasive)
In this method, the surgeon uses small cuts in the abdomen and a tiny camera (laparoscope) to remove the ovary. This usually means less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery.
2. Open Abdominal Oophorectomy
This involves a larger incision in the belly. It may be used when the ovaries are large, or cancer is suspected, or if the surgeon needs wider access to the organs.
3. Robotic-Assisted Oophorectomy
This is similar to laparoscopy, but the surgeon uses robotic instruments for more precise movements. Recovery is often easy and quick.
4. Salpingo-Oophorectomy
This is ovary removal with the fallopian tube(s). It’s commonly done when both structures are affected or for cancer risk reduction.
The type of surgery chosen depends on your specific problem, anatomy, and doctor’s recommendation.
Ovary Removal Procedure
Before ovary removal, your doctor will explain why it’s needed and how it will be done. You may have tests like blood work, ultrasounds, or MRI/CT scans to plan the surgery. You will be asked not to eat or drink for some hours before the operation.
During Surgery
1. Anaesthesia: You will get general anaesthesia, which means you’re asleep and pain-free during the whole operation.
2. Incisions: For laparoscopic or robotic surgery, small cuts are made in the belly. For open surgery, a larger cut is made.
3. Removal of Ovary/Ovaries: The surgeon finds the ovary (or both) and carefully detaches it from the blood vessels and surrounding tissues. If needed, the fallopian tube is removed as well.
4. Closure: Once the ovary is removed, the incisions are stitched up or closed with tiny seals.
5. Recovery Room: After surgery, you’re taken to a recovery area where nurses watch over you as anaesthesia wears off.
The surgical time can vary: laparoscopic procedures usually take 1–2 hours, while open surgery may take longer. The exact time depends on how complicated the case is.
Recovery & Aftercare
After ovary removal, most women stay in the hospital for 1–2 days (sometimes longer for open surgery). You may feel drowsy, sore at the incision site, or have mild cramping; this is normal and managed with pain medicines.
Early Recovery
- Rest and hydration are important in the first few days.
- Light walking helps reduce the risk of blood clots and supports healing.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects or intense activity until your doctor clears you.
Hormonal Effects
If only one ovary is removed, the other ovary usually continues making hormones, and menopause may not start right away. However, if both ovaries are removed, hormone levels drop suddenly and menopause begins. This may cause symptoms like:
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Sleep changes
Your doctor might discuss hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if appropriate, depending on your age and health.
Follow-Up Visits
You’ll have follow-up visits to check incision sites, discuss results (especially if tissue was sent for testing), and guide ongoing care. If surgery was for cancer, more long-term monitoring may be recommended.
Risks & Possible Complications
Ovary removal is generally safe, especially when done by experienced surgeons. Still, like any major surgery, it has potential risks:
- Infection at the incision site
- Bleeding or bruising
- Injury to nearby organs (bladder, bowel, blood vessels)
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Hormonal changes and early menopause if both ovaries were removed
- Emotional changes due to hormonal shifts
Most complications are rare and preventable with good care. Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail before surgery so you know what to expect and how to spot warning signs early.
Dr. Mradulika Sharma
Gynecologist- I worked in baba saheb Ambedkar Rohini delhi. Fortis hospital delhi Venkteshwar hospital delhi
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