Oophorectomy Side Effects

What is Oophorectomy

An oophorectomy is the process of removing one or both the ovaries (female reproductive anatomy liable for producing eggs and hormones). When one ovary is taken off, this process is called a unilateral oophorectomy, and when both ovaries are surgically taken off, this is a bilateral oophorectomy.

Benefits of Oophorectomy

Nonetheless, it is tough to analyze the benefits of getting removed some body part but following are some of the advantages of oophorectomy

• Lowers Ovarian Cancer Risk

Oophorectomy is the most successful medical procedure that will enable you lowering your risk of developing ovarian cancer. This is very advantageous in women who have a higher risk of getting ovarian cancer.

• Prevents Breast Cancer

Oophorectomy is also beneficial against breast cancer. Undertaking an oophorectomy could probably cut down the probability of breast cancer by almost 50 percent. To consolidate the protection against breast cancer both oophorectomy and mastectomy are done together.

• Lowers Signs of Endometriosis

Yet another health benefit of oophorectomy is that it also works against endometriosis. It removes the source of hormones leading to the growth of the uterine lining and in turn reduces the overgrowth causing endometriosis.

• Improves Health

As this particular medical surgery reduces the risk of developing breast cancer and also ovarian cancer, it is considered to improve overall health.

Disadvantages of Oophorectomy

There are also some disadvantages of oophorectomy as is applicable on every medical surgery. These disadvantages include:

• Permanence:

The menopause induced by oophorectomy is for life and it is non-reversible. This is a critical for young woman who may still be planning a family.

• Rapid Signs Menopausal:

If menopausal symptoms are to develop they may occur quickly after oophorectomy, whereas the use of Zoladex is expected to induce a gentle menopause.

Side Effects

The side effects of bilateral oophorectomy under different segments vary. The most visible and prominent side effects of oophorectomy may include:

• Menopausal Side Effects

The side effects are generally linked with menopause. These include the lack of ability to bear child, hot flashes, cease of menses, night sweats, mood swings, fatigue, sleeplessness, and anxiety. It may also decrease sex drive.

• Medical Side Effect

Women with Oophorectomy are at seven time higher risk of getting heart disease. This risk is not as intense in women who have gone through natural menopause. Oophorectomy also leads to a drop in testosterone production which in turn my lead to osteoporosis-related bone fractures.

• Surgical Side Effects

Infection, abdominal ache, scar tissue formation, vomiting, anesthesia reactions, bleeding and tiredness could be other side effects of oophorectomy. Nearby organs are also at risks of damage.