What to expect from oophorectomy for BRCA gene mutation

A BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation can increase the chance of certain cancers. Risk-reducing surgery may be discussed after considering age, fertility plans, family history, previous treatments and personal preferences. The operation may be performed through small abdominal openings or a larger incision, depending on your circumstances. Your surgeon will explain whether the uterus and other tissues are staying in place.

Removing both ovaries before natural menopause causes an abrupt fall in ovarian hormones. Possible effects include hot flushes, sleep or mood changes, vaginal dryness and changes in fertility. Ask about menopause care and whether hormone treatment is suitable for you, especially if you have had hormone-sensitive cancer.

Before surgery, discuss fertility preservation, contraception, menopause symptoms, medicines and the expected operation. Arrange transport and help with meals and lifting. During recovery, keep incisions clean and dry as instructed, walk gently, take prescribed pain relief, and avoid strenuous activity until cleared. Attend follow-up so pathology, wound healing and longer-term support can be reviewed.

Call your surgical team for increasing abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, wound redness or discharge, fever, heavy vaginal bleeding, or difficulty passing urine. Seek urgent care for fainting, severe breathlessness, sudden chest pain, or a swollen painful leg.

Ask whether surgery should include the fallopian tubes, how fertility will be affected, what menopause symptoms to expect, and which treatments are appropriate afterward. Ask about genetic counselling for relatives and the surveillance plan for cancers that surgery does not address.