A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the uterus, which is also known as the womb. This operation is a common treatment for various gynecological conditions, but it often leads to questions about its impact on a person’s ability to produce eggs and overall reproductive function. While a hysterectomy permanently prevents pregnancy, its effect on egg production depends entirely on whether the ovaries are also removed during the procedure.
What a Hysterectomy Involves
A hysterectomy removes the uterus, the muscular organ where a fetus develops and from which menstrual bleeding occurs. Different types of hysterectomies exist, depending on which parts of the reproductive system are removed.
A supracervical or partial hysterectomy removes only the upper part of the uterus, leaving the cervix intact. A total hysterectomy involves the removal of the entire uterus and the cervix.
A radical hysterectomy, often for cancer treatment, removes the uterus, cervix, surrounding tissues, and sometimes the upper vagina. Ovary removal, known as an oophorectomy, is a separate procedure.
Ovaries and Egg Production
The ovaries are small, oval-shaped glands located on either side of the uterus, serving a dual purpose. They produce and store eggs, also known as ova.
Females are born with their entire lifetime supply of eggs, housed within follicles. Ovaries also produce female reproductive hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone.
Each month, during ovulation, one ovary typically releases a mature egg. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy.
Egg Production After Hysterectomy
If the ovaries are left intact following a hysterectomy, they will continue to function. This means they will produce hormones and release eggs each month, just as before the procedure.
However, natural pregnancy is not possible after any type of hysterectomy because the uterus, essential for a fertilized egg to implant and grow, has been removed. The eggs released by the ovaries will simply be absorbed by the body without a uterus for implantation.
Conversely, if both ovaries are removed during the hysterectomy, egg production ceases entirely because the source of the eggs is gone.
Hormonal Changes and Menopause
When ovaries are preserved, they continue to produce hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Natural menopause occurs around the expected age (typically 45-55 years) as ovaries gradually cease function. Mild hormonal fluctuations may occur, but natural hormonal cycles generally continue.
If both ovaries are removed during a hysterectomy (bilateral oophorectomy), it immediately induces surgical menopause. This eliminates the primary source of estrogen and progesterone.
The sudden drop in hormone levels can lead to an immediate onset of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. Hormone replacement therapy may be recommended to manage these symptoms and support hormonal balance.