Oophorectomy is the surgical removal of one or both ovaries, which are essential organs in the female reproductive system. Each ovary is about the size of an almond and plays a crucial role in:
- Releasing eggs for reproduction (ovulation)
- Producing sex hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone
Types of Oophorectomy
- Unilateral Oophorectomy: A unilateral oophorectomy involves the removal of just one ovary. In many cases, the remaining ovary continues to function normally. This means that hormone balance can be maintained, and if the uterus is still present, fertility may also be preserved.
- Bilateral Oophorectomy: A bilateral oophorectomy is the surgical removal of both ovaries. For women who haven’t yet gone through menopause, this procedure triggers immediate menopause, often referred to as surgical menopause. This occurs because the removal of both ovaries leads to a significant and rapid drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone, the primary female hormones.
Why is Oophorectomy Performed?
Oophorectomy is often done as a “preventive” or “therapeutic” measure. Common reasons include:
- Cancer or high cancer risk (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers may choose prophylactic removal to reduce risk)
- Ovarian cysts or tumours (benign or malignant)
- Severe endometriosis affecting the ovaries
- Pelvic inflammatory disease or abscess not responding to treatment
- Ectopic pregnancy involving an ovary
- As part of a hysterectomy (often done simultaneously)
Types of Surgical Approaches
1. Laparoscopic Oophorectomy: Laparoscopic oophorectomy represents a minimally invasive surgical technique. This approach involves making only small incisions, which typically results in a faster healing process for the patient. Patients often experience less scarring and results in a reduced length of stay in the hospital.
2. Open Surgery (Laparotomy): Open surgery, also referred to as laparotomy, necessitates a larger incision in the abdomen. This type of surgical approach is often required when dealing with more complex medical situations or procedures related to cancer. Consequently, the recovery time associated with open surgery is generally longer compared to minimally invasive techniques.
Effects of Oophorectomy on the Body
- If only one ovary is removed:
- Hormone production and menstrual cycles typically continue
- Fertility may remain unaffected or less effected
- If both ovaries are removed:
- Induces surgical menopause
- Sudden drop in hormone levels can lead to:
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings or depression
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances
- Memory issues or “brain fog”
- Loss of libido
- Increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease
Oophorectomy vs. Hysterectomy: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Oophorectomy | Hysterectomy |
|---|---|---|
| What is removed? | One or both ovaries | The uterus, sometimes with cervix |
| Impact on fertility | Bilateral oophorectomy causes infertility | Hysterectomy causes infertility (no uterus for pregnancy) |
| Menopause? | Induced if both ovaries are removed | Natural menopause continues unless ovaries are removed too |
| Hormone production | Stops if both ovaries are removed | Continues if ovaries are left intact |
| Menstruation | Ends if both ovaries are removed | Ends after hysterectomy even if ovaries remain |
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) After Oophorectomy
HRT is often recommended for women who undergo bilateral oophorectomy before natural menopause to help manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks.
What is HRT?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to supplement the body with estrogen, and sometimes progesterone, especially after the ovaries stop functioning due to menopause or surgical removal (oophorectomy). For women who have undergone a bilateral oophorectomy—the removal of both ovaries—before natural menopause, HRT is often recommended to help restore hormonal balance.
Estrogen plays a vital role in many of the body’s systems, including regulating temperature, supporting bone density, maintaining cardiovascular health, and keeping the vaginal tissues healthy. When the ovaries are removed, estrogen levels drop suddenly, often leading to intense menopausal symptoms. If the uterus is still present, progesterone is added to HRT to protect the uterine lining from overgrowth, which could lead to cancer.
HRT is typically used to:
- Reduce vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats
- Improve mood, reduce anxiety or depression, and support better sleep quality
- Maintain vaginal health, preventing dryness and discomfort
- Support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis
Synthetic vs. Bioidentical Hormones
A major concern with HRT is the source and form of the hormones used. Many conventional HRT products are synthetic or semi-synthetic, meaning they are chemically modified versions of naturally occurring hormones. While these are designed to replicate the function of natural hormones, some researchers and holistic practitioners caution that synthetic hormones may not be metabolised or utilised by the body in the same way. Over time, this mismatch can potentially lead to imbalances and side effects that affect overall health and well-being.
From a natural health perspective, the long-term use of synthetic HRT may not always align with optimal health outcomes. Some critics argue that, although HRT may offer short-term relief, its benefits can diminish over time and may even compromise quality of life. This is why many women seek out bioidentical hormone therapies or natural alternatives that are believed to work more harmoniously with the body.
Bioidentical hormones are designed to be chemically identical to the body’s natural hormones and are often derived from plant sources like yams,flaxseeds, and red clover. These are considered by some to be more natural and better tolerated.
Risks & Considerations
Potential risks of HRT include:
- Increased risk of blood clots, particularly with oral forms of HRT
- Elevated risk of breast cancer, especially with long-term combined estrogen-progesterone therapy
- Not appropriate for women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast or endometrial cancer
- Cardiovascular risks may increase depending on age, health status, and method of administration
Exploring Natural Alternatives
Some women prefer to explore natural approaches to managing hormone imbalance, especially those who cannot or choose not to use HRT. Options include:
- Phytoestrogens – Plant-based compounds found in foods like flaxseeds, chickpeas and legumes that have mild estrogen-like effects
- Black cohosh – An herb traditionally used to relieve hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms
- Evening primrose oil – Often used to help with mood swings and breast tenderness
Natural Ways to Support Hormone Balance After Oophorectomy
Whether you’re avoiding HRT or using it alongside natural methods, these tips can help ease symptoms and promote overall well-being.
1. Nourish with a Hormone-Balancing Diet
Your diet becomes your first line of support.
– Focus on:
- Whole foods: Fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains (e.g., quinoa, spelt, amaranth), nuts, and seeds
- Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, flaxseed oil, chia seeds, hemp seeds — these support hormone production
- Phytoestrogens: Plant-based compounds that gently mimic estrogen. Found in: flaxseeds, sesame seeds, lentils, alfalfa sprouts
– Limit:
- Refined sugars and flours
- Processed foods
- Alcohol and caffeine (can worsen hot flashes and mood swings)
2. Get Plenty of Sunlight & Calcium
Oophorectomy increases the risk of bone loss, so bone health is essential.
- Spend time in sunlight (15–30 min/day if possible)
- Eat calcium-rich foods: sesame seeds, kale, okra, figs, seaweed
- Consider a plant-based calcium and magnesium supplement if needed
3. Exercise to Regulate Mood & Hormones
Movement helps with hot flashes, anxiety, weight gain, and sleep quality.
- Weight-bearing exercise: Supports bone density (e.g., walking, hiking, light resistance training)
- Yoga & stretching: Reduce tension, improve circulation
- Cardio: Boosts mood, supports heart health
4. Herbal Allies for Menopause Support
Several herbs can gently support your endocrine system.
Helpful Herbs:
- Black Cohosh – Used traditionally to ease hot flashes and mood swings
- Ashwagandha – Reduces stress and supports thyroid/adrenal balance
- Shatavari – Ayurvedic tonic for female hormone balance
- Red Clover – Contains natural phytoestrogens
Always check with your doctor or herbalist if you’re on any medications or have hormone-sensitive conditions.
5. Stress Management & Emotional Care
The sudden change in hormones can trigger emotional swings, anxiety, or sadness.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: 5–10 minutes a day can make a huge difference
- Journaling: Helps release emotions and track symptoms
- Therapy or support groups: Especially if the surgery was unexpected or tied to illness
6. Improve Sleep Naturally
Hormone shifts often disrupt sleep, so aim for a soothing bedtime routine.
- Herbal teas: chamomile, passionflower, lemon balm
- Avoid screens an hour before bed
- Magnesium-rich foods or supplements for calming the nervous system
7. Natural Lubricants for Vaginal Dryness
Loss of estrogen can cause vaginal dryness, which can affect intimacy and comfort.
- Look for coconut oil–based or other natural lubricants
- Some women benefit from vaginal moisturisers made with calendula
Final Tip: Listen to Your Body
Your journey post-oophorectomy is unique. Some women bounce back quickly, while others need more time. It’s okay to:
- Ask for help
- Rest when needed
- Try different combinations of food, herbs, and lifestyle tweaks to find what works for you.
If you haven’t yet reached the point of needing this surgery, know that there’s still time to support your body and potentially avoid it altogether.
By focusing on cleansing, nourishing, and restoring balance to your system, you may be able to reverse or manage underlying conditions before they progress. Empower yourself with holistic practices that strengthen your body’s natural ability to heal—so you never have to face the possibility of an oophorectomy.
References:
– Elisabeth A Erekson, Deanna K Martin, Elena S Ratner. Oophorectomy: the debate between ovarian conservation and elective oophorectomy. Menopause. 2013 Jan;20(1):110–114. doi: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31825a27ab
– Oophorectomy (ovary removal surgery). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/oophorectomy/about/pac-20385030
– Oophorectomy. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17800-oophorectomy
– Thinking About Oophorectomy. MyHealth.Alberta. https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tv1854spec
This article is copyrighted by Ital is Vital, 2024. Want to re-post this article? Visit our guidelines.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.