Ovaries are glands located on either side of the uterus, responsible for producing eggs and secreting hormones. This article explores how the removal of one or both ovaries impacts fertility and overall health.
Understanding Ovarian Function
Ovaries have two primary functions: producing eggs (ova) and synthesizing female hormones. Each ovary contains follicles that house immature eggs. During the menstrual cycle, hormones stimulate these follicles to mature, leading to egg release during ovulation.
Ovaries are endocrine glands that secrete hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle, develops female characteristics, and maintains bone density. Progesterone prepares the uterus lining for pregnancy and supports early pregnancy if conception occurs.
Fertility After One Ovary Removal
The removal of one ovary, a unilateral oophorectomy, does not eliminate the possibility of pregnancy. The remaining ovary can compensate, continuing to produce eggs and hormones. It may release an egg every menstrual cycle, taking over the function of both ovaries.
Several factors can influence fertility outcomes after one ovary is removed. A woman’s age plays a role, as ovarian reserve naturally declines over time. The health of the remaining ovary and any underlying conditions that led to the removal of the first ovary, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also affect fertility. While fertility might be reduced, natural conception remains possible, though some studies suggest a lower likelihood of pregnancy and live births after IVF compared to women with both ovaries.
Fertility After Both Ovaries Removed
The removal of both ovaries, a bilateral oophorectomy, leads to permanent infertility. Without ovaries, there are no eggs for natural fertilization. This procedure directly impacts the ability to conceive naturally, as ovulation ceases.
With both ovaries removed, the body no longer produces the necessary hormones, estrogen and progesterone, which are essential for supporting a natural pregnancy. Therefore, without medical intervention, natural conception is not possible in this scenario.
Exploring Fertility Preservation and Parenthood Options
For individuals facing ovary removal, fertility preservation before surgery offers important options. Techniques such as egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) or embryo freezing (embryo cryopreservation) allow eggs or embryos to be stored for future use. This can be a significant consideration for those who wish to have children biologically after the procedure.
When natural conception is not possible due to ovary removal, alternative paths to parenthood exist. In vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs is an option for those with a uterus but no eggs. Surrogacy is another avenue, where a gestational carrier carries the pregnancy. Adoption also offers a way to build a family.
Broader Health Implications of Ovary Removal
Ovaries contribute to overall health through hormone production. The removal of both ovaries, especially before natural menopause, results in an abrupt cessation of hormone production, leading to surgical menopause. This sudden hormonal shift can trigger immediate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, anxiety, and depression.
The long-term absence of ovarian hormones, especially estrogen, can increase the risk of health issues. These include decreased bone density, leading to osteoporosis, and an elevated risk of cardiovascular problems. Some research also suggests potential impacts on cognitive function and mood, with an increased risk of cognitive impairment, dementia, and depressive or anxiety symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy may mitigate some of these health risks.