Ovarian removal is a common procedure for women who have a high risk of developing ovarian cancer. However, this procedure also comes with risks, such as an increased risk of other types of cancer.

In this article, we will discuss the types of cancer that have a higher risk with ovarian removal.

Breast Cancer

One of the biggest concerns for women who have had an oophorectomy (ovarian removal) is the increased risk of breast cancer. This is because the ovaries produce estrogen, which is a hormone that can promote the growth of certain types of breast cancer.

Studies have shown that women who have had their ovaries removed before their natural menopause are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Furthermore, women who have a family history of breast cancer have an even higher risk of developing the disease. This is because certain genetic mutations, such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, can increase the risk of both ovarian and breast cancers.

Women who have these mutations may choose to have an oophorectomy as a preventive measure, but this can also increase their risk of breast cancer.

Colon Cancer

Women who have had an oophorectomy also have a higher risk of developing colon cancer. This is because the ovaries produce estrogen, which can help protect the colon against cancer.

Studies have shown that women who have had their ovaries removed before their natural menopause are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Lung Cancer

Studies have shown that women who have had an oophorectomy have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. The reason for this increased risk is not yet clear, but it may be related to changes in hormone levels after the procedure.

Pancreatic Cancer

Women who have had an oophorectomy also have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. This is because the ovaries produce estrogen, which can help protect the pancreas against cancer.

Studies have shown that women who have had their ovaries removed before their natural menopause are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Uterine Cancer

Women who have had an oophorectomy have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer. This is because the ovaries produce estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of the lining of the uterus.

Without estrogen, the risk of developing uterine cancer increases. Women who have had their ovaries removed may also have a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer, which is a type of uterine cancer.

Cervical Cancer

Women who have had an oophorectomy do not have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer. However, women who have had their ovaries removed may have a higher risk of developing human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which can lead to cervical cancer.

This is because estrogen helps protect the cervix against HPV infections.

Ovarian Cancer

Women who have had an oophorectomy have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer, as the ovaries are removed.

However, women who have a high risk of developing ovarian cancer due to genetic mutations may still choose to have an oophorectomy as a preventive measure.

Conclusion

Ovarian removal is a common procedure for women who have a high risk of developing ovarian cancer. However, this procedure also comes with risks, such as an increased risk of other types of cancer.

Women who have had their ovaries removed may have a higher risk of breast, colon, lung, pancreatic, and uterine cancers. However, they have a lower risk of ovarian cancer. It is important for women to discuss the risks and benefits of an oophorectomy with their doctors before making a decision.