Side effects

During the operation itself, some complications may occur. For example, neighboring organs or anatomical structures (e.g. a ureter) may be injured. As with any surgical procedure, bleeding or secondary bleeding may occur.

In rare cases, nerve damage may occur, leading to paralysis, numbness or even to mostly non-permanent functional disorders of the bladder. The operation can lead to adhesions in the abdomen. Very rarely, serious complications such as intestinal obstruction or life-threatening peritonitis occur.

In the further course of the operation, inflammatory connecting channels (fistulas) can develop, for example between the vagina and rectum. Further risks are posed by anesthesia and excessive scarring, pain and allergic reactions can occur. The removal of the ovaries leads to an abrupt onset of the menopause, the transition from the reproductive to the postmenopausal phase.Common complaints that occur due to estrogen deficiency are sweating, hot flashes, libido deficiency and atrophy of the vaginal skin.

This leads to a corresponding dryness of the vagina, which can cause pain during sexual intercourse, vaginal inflammation and bleeding. Psychological changes, dizziness, slight fatigue, listlessness, irritability, nervousness and mood swings up to depressions are also side effects of (bilateral) ovarian removal. It can lead to lack of concentration, urinary incontinence, constipation, diarrhea, weight gain, hair loss and increased hair growth on the face. Most of these side effects disappear (as with naturally induced menopause) after about one to one and a half years.

Disadvantages of ovarectomy

Removal of the ovaries on both sides is a serious procedure for the woman concerned. As a result of the operation, pregnancy is no longer possible by natural means. The hormone production by the ovaries stops after the operation and may require special hormone treatment.

The most commonly used are artificially produced combination preparations of estrogens and progesterone or gestagens. Dizziness, migraine and nausea are among the most common complaints after ovariectomy. In some cases depression may occur.

In addition to decreasing muscle mass and bone density, the libido may also decrease. If the uterus is removed at the same time, menopause is artificially induced. As a result, sufferers sometimes suffer more from hot flushes, sleep disorders, unbalanced moods and dry mucous membranes.