Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 1, 2026

Author Spotlight: A Reproductive Hysteroscopy Approach for Complete Endometrial Polyp Removal and Enhanced Endometrial Receptivity
Published on: August 2, 2024
When Should Prophylactic Oophorectomy Be Recommended at the Time of Elective Hysterectomy?
Kathryn J Huber-Keener1, Mark D Pearlman2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa.
Abstract:
Gynecologists are frequently confronted with the decision of when to recommend oophorectomy at the time of an elective hysterectomy. When deciding if oophorectomy should be recommended, first a careful history and risk assessment must be performed to determine if a patient is a candidate for a risk-reducing oophorectomy. If the patient does not have a hereditary ovarian cancer risk, then it is recommended the surgeon carefully consider the implications of ovarian removal on the health of their patient. This review covers the potential benefits and risks of prophylactic oophorectomy and offers a decision aid for when to recommend this procedure.
Related Concept Videos
Oogenesis
Ovarian Cycle
Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle. At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
Disorders of the Female Reproductive System

