Q&A: Oophorectomy following breast cancer treatment
What is a risk-reducing oophorectomy, and will it affect my sex life?
Women with breast cancer who have a genetic predisposition for the development of ovarian cancer because of BRCA gene mutations may opt to undergo a risk reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, or voluntary removal of the ovaries.
This may have negative sexual consequences. In fact, research shows that anxiety about a second malignancy in some women is not eliminated when the ovaries are removed!
Younger women who remove their ovaries may also have menopausal syndrome, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness leading to sexual pain syndromes, irritability and mood changes. Researchers are now concerned about long-term negative health effects, such as bone health and cardiovascular disease, for these women. Have an honest discussion with your healthcare team about your risk for another breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer.
If you are at high risk for developing another cancer, you can be screened closely by your survivorship professional, your gynecology, or oncological provider. Many large hospitals have high-risk screening programs and have access to the latest technology. For ovarian cancer screening, the patient is asked to have a pelvic examination, a CA 125 blood hormone test, and a transvaginal examination. Although these tests lack considerable sensitivity and specificity, they are the best screening techniques available.
Term:
Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy – The surgical term for the removal of both the right and left fallopian tubes and ovaries.
