Our Summary

This research paper is about surgical menopause, which occurs when a woman’s ovaries are removed before they naturally stop working. This can lead to premature ovarian insufficiency, where menopause happens before the age of 40. Surgical menopause causes a sudden drop in the production of certain sexual hormones, unlike natural menopause which is gradual. The paper suggests that women who have had their ovaries removed before menopause should consider hormone replacement therapy until they reach the age when menopause would naturally occur. This is because sexual function and desire can change after this surgery, particularly in younger women. Therefore, hormone replacement therapy should also take into account the need for androgen, a male sex hormone.

FAQs

  1. What is surgical menopause and how does it differ from natural menopause?
  2. What is the potential impact of salpingo-oophorectomy on a woman’s sexual function and desire?
  3. What is the suggested treatment for women who have had their ovaries removed before menopause and why is it recommended?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about salpingo-oophorectomy is to discuss the potential impact on sexual function and desire, and to explore the option of hormone replacement therapy to help manage any changes. It is important to have open and honest conversations with your healthcare provider about any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing, and to work together to find the best treatment plan for you.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended salpingo-oophorectomy include:

  1. Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, especially those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. These women have a significantly higher risk of developing these cancers and may choose to undergo prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy to reduce their risk.

  2. Women with a history of ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or other ovarian conditions that are difficult to treat with other methods.

  3. Women with gynecologic cancers, such as ovarian cancer, who may need to have their ovaries and fallopian tubes removed as part of their treatment.

  4. Women with severe pelvic inflammatory disease or other conditions that have caused significant damage to their reproductive organs.

  5. Women who have completed their families and are looking for a permanent form of contraception.

  6. Women who have a history of pelvic pain or other symptoms that have not responded to other treatments.

It is important for patients considering salpingo-oophorectomy to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and to explore alternative treatment options if appropriate. Additionally, women who undergo this surgery should be aware of the potential impact on their sexual function and hormone levels and discuss the possibility of hormone replacement therapy with their healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before salpingo-oophorectomy:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or cancer that require surgical intervention
  • Patient consults with a gynecologist or oncologist to discuss the need for surgery and the potential risks and benefits
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery
  • Patient may receive counseling about the potential impact of surgery on their fertility and hormonal health

After salpingo-oophorectomy:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to remove one or both ovaries and fallopian tubes
  • Patient may experience immediate side effects such as pain, swelling, or bleeding at the surgical site
  • Patient may be prescribed pain medication and advised on how to care for themselves post-surgery
  • Patient may experience symptoms of surgical menopause such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and changes in sexual desire
  • Patient may be prescribed hormone replacement therapy to help manage these symptoms and maintain overall health
  • Patient may need ongoing follow-up care and monitoring to ensure their hormonal health is optimized and any potential long-term effects of surgery are addressed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of undergoing a salpingo-oophorectomy?

  2. How will the removal of my ovaries and fallopian tubes affect my hormone levels and overall health?

  3. What are the potential long-term effects of surgical menopause on my sexual function, desire, and overall quality of life?

  4. Are there any alternative treatments or medications that could help manage the symptoms of surgical menopause without undergoing hormone replacement therapy?

  5. What are the different types of hormone replacement therapy available, and how do I determine which one is best for me?

  6. What are the potential side effects of hormone replacement therapy, and how can they be managed?

  7. How long should I expect to be on hormone replacement therapy after undergoing a salpingo-oophorectomy?

  8. How often will I need to have follow-up appointments to monitor my hormone levels and overall health after the surgery?

  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary recommendations that can help manage the symptoms of surgical menopause?

  10. Can you provide me with resources or support groups for women who have undergone a salpingo-oophorectomy and are experiencing surgical menopause?

Reference

Authors: C Pillay O, Manyonda I. Journal: Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2022 May;81:111-118. doi: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.03.001. Epub 2022 Mar 9. PMID: 35568447