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An oophorectomy is surgery to remove one or both ovaries. Removing one ovary is called a unilateral oophorectomy, and removing both is called a bilateral oophorectomy. The fallopian tubes may also be removed in a procedure called salpingo-oophorectomy. The effects on hormones and fertility depend largely on whether one or both ovaries are removed.
read more about oophorectomy ...An oophorectomy may be used to treat ovarian cancer, certain ovarian cysts or tumors, an abscess, or ovarian torsion. It may also be considered for some people with endometriosis or a high inherited risk of ovarian cancer. Removing an ovary is not required for every ovarian cyst or hysterectomy. The reason for surgery guides whether one ovary, both ovaries, or the fallopian tubes are removed.
The procedure may be performed through small abdominal incisions with laparoscopic instruments or through a larger incision. Under anesthesia, the surgeon separates the affected ovary or ovaries from their blood supply and surrounding tissue. The organs are removed through an incision, and the surgical site is closed. The choice of approach depends on factors such as the condition being treated and the size of an ovarian mass.
If one ovary remains, it may continue to release eggs and produce hormones. Removing both ovaries before natural menopause causes an immediate drop in ovarian hormones and brings on surgical menopause. Symptoms can include hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and longer-term health effects should be discussed before surgery. A clinician can explain whether hormone therapy is appropriate for an individual patient.
Risks include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs, and complications related to anesthesia. Recovery depends on whether surgery was laparoscopic or open and whether other procedures were performed at the same time. The care team will provide instructions for wound care, activity, and follow-up. Sudden severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms after surgery warrant prompt medical advice.
Usually not if the remaining ovary continues to function. Menopause can still occur later as part of the natural aging process.
Yes, if both ovaries are removed before natural menopause. The sudden loss of ovarian hormone production causes surgical menopause.
Pregnancy may still be possible if the remaining ovary functions and the uterus and reproductive pathway remain intact. Fertility also depends on age and other health factors.
No. An oophorectomy removes an ovary or ovaries, while a hysterectomy removes the uterus; the procedures may be performed together.
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Oophorectomy. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559235/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Oophorectomy (ovary removal surgery). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/oophorectomy/about/pac-20385030. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Oophorectomy: Purpose, Surgery, Risks & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17800-oophorectomy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.