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Ovarian Cancer (Expert Forum)
Effects of removal of one ovary due to large benign ovarian cyst
Answered by
Annekathryn Goodman, M.D. - Gynecologic Cancers, Complex Gynecologic, Surgeries, Palliative Care, Acupuncture
Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center
Boston - MA
Effects of removal of one ovary due to large benign ovarian cyst
by cdl1955, Aug 28, 2006 12:00AM
My partner had an ovarian cyst the size of a pineapple removed a over a year ago. The ovary was significantly damaged and was also removed.
What physiological and/or psychological side effects would be likely after such a procedure? she appears to be in some sort of life crisis. Although that may seem like I am patronising, I am finding it very distressing and confusing. Almost a different person to the one I knew... I am trying to be supportive and maybe the two are not linked, but thought I would ask as I am searching for reasons for the deterioration in what was a close relationship and the timing is pretty coincidental.
What physiological and/or psychological side effects would be likely after such a procedure? she appears to be in some sort of life crisis. Although that may seem like I am patronising, I am finding it very distressing and confusing. Almost a different person to the one I knew... I am trying to be supportive and maybe the two are not linked, but thought I would ask as I am searching for reasons for the deterioration in what was a close relationship and the timing is pretty coincidental.
Doctor's Answer
by Annekathryn Goodman, M.D., Aug 31, 2006 12:00AM
, Aug 31, 2006 12:00AM
Hi There,
Ovarian function is related to age, medical conditions, medications, certain interventions such as surgery and radiation.
Ovarian function can be defined as a balanced and cyclical production of estrogen and progesterone that allows a monthly release of a mature egg. Ovarian function is present from menarche (the first menstrual cycle - usually ages 10-14) to menopause (defined as no menstruation for 12 months - usually ages 45 - 55).In menarche , there can be a 10 year period of irregular cycles because the connections are not matured. On the other end of the spectrum, in the perimenopause, there is a slow waning of ovarian function. Women can experience irregular cycles, hot flashes, and then a spell of normal cycles before becoming irregular again.
If surgery removes both ovaries, surgical menopause occurs. If only one ovary is removed, the other ovary will produce the normal level of estrogen and progesterone.
If your partner still has one of her ovaries and she is having monthly periods, then her ovarian function is probably just fine.
Sometimes a large stress such as a surgery can uncover deeper psychic issues. Alot of time the terror of surgery, being out of control, being in a hospital can push a person to reflect on personal issues that were not previously addressed. I do not believe surgery per se or even menopause per se causes people to change who they are.
It is very painful to watch someone you love struggle through something that you did not even know was there. It can make you feel very helpless. Sometimes, a person will agree to counseling and / or couples counseling.
I wish you the best
Ovarian function is related to age, medical conditions, medications, certain interventions such as surgery and radiation.
Ovarian function can be defined as a balanced and cyclical production of estrogen and progesterone that allows a monthly release of a mature egg. Ovarian function is present from menarche (the first menstrual cycle - usually ages 10-14) to menopause (defined as no menstruation for 12 months - usually ages 45 - 55).In menarche , there can be a 10 year period of irregular cycles because the connections are not matured. On the other end of the spectrum, in the perimenopause, there is a slow waning of ovarian function. Women can experience irregular cycles, hot flashes, and then a spell of normal cycles before becoming irregular again.
If surgery removes both ovaries, surgical menopause occurs. If only one ovary is removed, the other ovary will produce the normal level of estrogen and progesterone.
If your partner still has one of her ovaries and she is having monthly periods, then her ovarian function is probably just fine.
Sometimes a large stress such as a surgery can uncover deeper psychic issues. Alot of time the terror of surgery, being out of control, being in a hospital can push a person to reflect on personal issues that were not previously addressed. I do not believe surgery per se or even menopause per se causes people to change who they are.
It is very painful to watch someone you love struggle through something that you did not even know was there. It can make you feel very helpless. Sometimes, a person will agree to counseling and / or couples counseling.
I wish you the best
Member Comments (2)
by Carla68, Aug 30, 2006 12:00AM
Possibly she is experiencing low hormone levels due to only having one ovary - which could have the same effects as going through menopause. Her doctor should be able to test and prescribe hormone therapy if needed.
by shelly41, Mar 29, 2008 06:09AM
A related discussion, One Ovary was started.
by shazza72, Mar 29, 2008 11:41AM
A related discussion, removal of one ovary was started.
by treasure154, Apr 05, 2008 08:18AM
A related discussion, Ovary cyst was started.
by elyssa1012, Apr 14, 2008 03:32AM
A related discussion, 2 ovaries and uterus removed was started.
by jesy18, Aug 13, 2008 02:42PM
A related discussion, sister ovary removed was started.
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