Our Summary

This study investigated the cognitive experiences of women who had a preventative surgery to remove both ovaries due to a high risk of ovarian cancer. This surgery often leads to an early onset of menopause. The researchers interviewed 16 Australian women who had undergone this procedure and found that almost all of them (15 out of 16) reported changes to their cognitive function within two years after the surgery. These changes included feeling mentally foggy, having difficulties with memory and recall, slower thinking speed, and attention difficulties. About a third of the women also experienced negative mood symptoms after the surgery. The researchers suggest that this period following the surgery could be a challenging time for women’s cognitive health. They recommend that more awareness and education could help manage these cognitive symptoms after the surgery. However, a larger study is needed to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What are the potential cognitive effects of a preventative surgery to remove both ovaries?
  2. How many women reportedly experienced changes to their cognitive function after undergoing this surgery according to the study?
  3. What was the recommendation of the researchers in managing cognitive symptoms after salpingo-oophorectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about salpingo-oophorectomy is to discuss potential cognitive changes that may occur after the surgery, such as memory problems, slower thinking speed, and mood changes. It’s important to be aware of these possible effects and to seek support or guidance if needed. Additionally, staying physically active, engaging in cognitive activities, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help support cognitive function during the recovery period.

Suitable For

Salpingo-oophorectomy, the surgical removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries, is typically recommended for patients who are at high risk for ovarian cancer. This includes individuals with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, those with a known genetic mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, and those with a personal history of breast or ovarian cancer. Additionally, salpingo-oophorectomy may be recommended for patients with certain gynecological conditions such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts that have not responded to other treatments.

Timeline

Before the salpingo-oophorectomy:

  • Patient undergoes genetic testing to determine their risk of ovarian cancer
  • Patient receives counseling and information about the risks and benefits of the surgery
  • Patient decides to proceed with the surgery due to a high risk of ovarian cancer
  • Surgery is scheduled and performed to remove both ovaries and fallopian tubes

After the salpingo-oophorectomy:

  • Patient may experience physical recovery from the surgery, including pain and discomfort
  • Patient may experience emotional effects of losing their reproductive organs
  • Patient may begin to experience symptoms of early menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings
  • Within two years after the surgery, patient may begin to notice changes in cognitive function, such as mental fog, memory difficulties, slower thinking speed, and attention issues
  • Patient may also experience negative mood symptoms, such as depression or anxiety
  • Patient may seek support and education to manage these cognitive and emotional symptoms
  • Research suggests that more awareness and education are needed to support women’s cognitive health after salpingo-oophorectomy

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after salpingo-oophorectomy involves a decision-making process, surgery, physical and emotional recovery, and potential cognitive and emotional changes that may require further support and education.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about salpingo-oophorectomy include:

  1. What are the potential cognitive side effects of this surgery?
  2. How likely am I to experience changes in memory, thinking speed, and attention after the surgery?
  3. What can I do to prevent or manage cognitive symptoms post-surgery?
  4. Are there any medications or treatments that can help alleviate cognitive symptoms?
  5. How long do cognitive symptoms typically last after salpingo-oophorectomy?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to support my cognitive health post-surgery?
  7. Should I seek a referral to a specialist, such as a neurologist or psychiatrist, to address cognitive symptoms?
  8. How often should I follow up with you or another healthcare provider to monitor my cognitive health after the surgery?
  9. Are there any support groups or resources available for women who have undergone salpingo-oophorectomy and are experiencing cognitive changes?
  10. What are the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy for managing cognitive symptoms after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ramachandra A, Thomas EHX, Vincent AJ, Hickey M, Warren N, Kulkarni J, Forrest LE, Bojadzieva J, Campbell A, Gurvich C. Journal: Climacteric. 2023 Dec;26(6):625-631. doi: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2256659. Epub 2023 Dec 1. PMID: 37751773