Surgical Removal Of Ovary / Oophorectomy

Complications may arise during the procedure or due to removal of the ovaries. Oophorectomy is a relatively safe operation, although, like all major surgery, it does carry some risks. These may be related to the procedure itself or due to anesthesia.

 Reaction to anesthesia

 Internal bleeding

 Blood clots, particularly in the veins of the legs

 Accidental damage to other pelvic and abdominal organs

 Infection

Risk Factors likely to increase the Complications during the Procedure are:

 Presence of scar tissue and/or abscesses in the abdomen

 Obesity

 Smoking

Long-term Complications of Removing both the Ovaries include:

 Changes in sex drive

 Hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause, if both ovaries are removed

 Removing both ovaries increases the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis; taking hormone replacement therapy can help reduce this risk

 Depression and other forms of psychological distress

Women with a history of psychological and emotional problems before an oophorectomy are more likely to experience psychological difficulties after the operation.