Papanikolaou A
4th Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, Hippokrateio hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
Correspondence: Papanikolaou A, 119 Tsimiski St, GR-54622 Thessaloniki, Greece. E-mail: papalex@med.auth.gr
Abstract
Αt least 50% of women above 40 years old undergo oophorectomy at the course of hysterectomy for benign indications, because ovaries are easy to excise. Opinions that women at 40 years are close to menopause and that ovaries fail after hysterectomy do not appear to be correct. Post-menopausal ovaries are the main source of testosterone in the body, the function of which is poorly understood but may be important. Oophorectomy is indicated in few cases with extensive endometriosis, pelvic pain, adhesions, in hereditary ovarian/breast cancer or menopause . Prophylactic oophorectomy to avoid future ovarian cancer should be discouraged. The lack of ovarian hormones has been shown to have important implications in the quality of life and the general health of women. The final decision should be made after a balanced account of all risks and benefits of oophorectomy.
Keywords: prophylactic oophorectomy, hysterectomy
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