A hysterectomy is surgery to take out the uterus. This is the organ in the lower belly where a fetus can grow during pregnancy.
Oophorectomy is surgery to take out one or both ovaries. These are the glands that store and release eggs. They also make sex hormones.
Sometimes the uterus and ovaries are taken out at the same time. And in some cases, one or both of the fallopian tubes are removed too.
Sometimes there is a health reason to have your ovaries removed. Maybe you have a tumor on an ovary. Or maybe you're at high risk for breast or ovarian cancer. You may be able to choose whether to have one, both, or part of your ovaries removed based on what you prefer and your health condition. Talk to your doctor about your options.
The type of surgery you have depends on why you are having it done.
You may have:
Oophorectomy may be done to treat ovarian cancer. It may also be done to treat other problems, such as a twisted ovary, an ovarian cyst or abscess, or endometriosis. And sometimes it's done to reduce your risk of breast or ovarian cancer. It can also be done as a part of gender-affirming surgery.
Sometimes there is a health reason to have your ovaries removed. Maybe you have a tumor on an ovary or are at high risk for breast or ovarian cancer. You may be able to choose whether to have one, both, or part of your ovaries removed based on what you prefer and your condition.
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