Advantages of Ovary Removal at the Time of Hysterectomy

Advantages of Ovary Removal at the Time of Hysterectomy

As an Obstetrician-Gynecologist practicing at Complete Health Care for Women in Richland, WA, my priority is to ensure that my patients are well-informed and empowered to make the best decisions regarding their health. A common question that arises 

Ovary removal can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian and breast cancer, particularly in women who are at a higher risk due to family history or genetic predisposition. Our recent review of a comprehensive study indicates that women aged 50 years or older may safely undergo BSO without undue increased mortality risk, with the added benefit of decreased risks of ovarian and, possibly, breast cancer.

Moreover, for women undergoing hysterectomy after the age of 53, the updated data suggest there is no long-term increased risk of death associated with adding BSO to the procedure compared to hysterectomy alone. This suggests that for women over 53, the benefit of ovarian cancer risk reduction may outweigh the risks of the surgery itself.

Risks Associated with Ovary Removal

However, removing ovaries is not without its risks and should not be a default procedure for every woman undergoing hysterectomy. The removal of ovaries before the age of 50 has been associated with a range of health concerns, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, due to the abrupt loss of estrogen. It is crucial to weigh these risks, especially in younger women, where the potential harm may outweigh the benefits.

The updated models have highlighted that the risks previously associated with BSO, particularly regarding cardiovascular disease, were overestimated in earlier studies. Nonetheless, it's essential to consider the increased risk of conditions such as hip fractures and neurologic decline, which may be more prevalent in women who have their ovaries removed before the age of 50.

Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) as a Mitigating Factor

ERT can mitigate some risks associated with early BSO. For women under 50, ERT until the natural age of menopause can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and other conditions associated with early menopause. This therapy, however, is not suitable for everyone and should be discussed thoroughly with your healthcare provider.

Making the Best Decision for Your Health

Every woman's health profile is unique, and the decision to remove ovaries during hysterectomy should be made on a case-by-case basis. In our practice at Complete Health Care for Women, we discuss all the potential benefits and risks, taking into account your personal and family medical history, current health status, and your values and preferences regarding health interventions.

I encourage my patients to consider these factors carefully and engage in a detailed discussion with their healthcare provider. At our Richland, WA, practice, we are committed to providing you with the personalized care needed to make the best decision for your health. For more information or to discuss your individual case, please contact us at 509-392-6700.

Richard Lorenzo D.O.

Fellow American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Fellow American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Complete Healthcare for Women, Richland, WA

Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

509-392-6700

Author

Richard Lorenzo, DO Dr. Lorenzo is also a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He provides gynecological and obstetric services, including prenatal care, pregnancy care, infertility, and gynecology. Dr. Lorenzo is proficient in advanced surgical techniques, including minimally-invasive procedures, as well as surgery for abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and hysterectomy. He has specialized training in high-risk obstetrics and minimally invasive surgical techniques, including minimally invasive hysterectomy.