Pros and Cons of Keeping Ovaries

When I was considering getting a hysterectomy, my friend urged me to have my ovaries removed no matter what. She has had wonderful results with her HRT and loves being on an "even keel" emotionally. My doctor, on the other hand, said it's better to keep the ovaries if at all possible. In the end, I opted to keep my ovaries if they appeared healthy, and that's what happened. So, is it better to keep the ovaries or have them removed? If your ovaries are diseased, grossly enlarged, or otherwised damaged, you should definitely consider removal. If they're healthy, however, it's a bit more complicated.

Pros of Keeping Ovaries

• When the ovaries are removed, the body is sent into instant menopause. This surgical menopause is more severe than natural, gradual menopause.
• If you keep your ovaries, your body should continue to produce reproductive hormones and you can usually delay the need for HRT.
• Keeping your ovaries usually diminishes menopause-like symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, although some women with ovaries experience these things for a while post-op.

Cons of Keeping Ovaries

• If you still have your ovaries, you can still ovulate. This means you can still experience pain during ovulation and PMS
• You can still develop ovarian cancer. If you have a family history of ovarian cancer or other risk factors for the disease, discuss this with your doctor.
• You can still develop ovarian cysts.
  

In the end, this is a personal decision that only you and your doctor can make. Weigh out your options and consider your age, health, and risk factors. Good luck!

There is life after hysterectomy... and it's good. Enjoy!