Influence of prophylactic oophorectomy on mood and sexual function in women of menopausal transition or postmenopausal period

Aim

To evaluate the impact of prophylactic oophorectomy on mood and sexual function in women at menopausal transition or postmenopausal period.

Methods

Patients who underwent operations due to benign diseases of uterus and ovaries were included and were stratified into two groups, namely Group A with 256 patients undergoing hysterectomy and prophylactic oophorectomy and Group B with 337 patients undergoing simple hysterectomy. Follow-ups included demographic data, Self-Rating Zung Depression Scale (ZDS), Self-Rating Zung Anxiety Scale (ZAS), and Female Sexual Function of Index (FSFI).

Results

Five hundred and ninety-three patients were successfully followed. 69.27 % of patients at menopausal transition period chose ovary conservation whilst 79.22 % of postmenopausal women chose oophorectomy due to fear of potential cancer and economy issue. Ovarian cancer was not found in this cohort. Incidence of distress was higher in Group A (P = 0.001). No difference was obtained in ZAS scores between the two groups (P = 0.110). Incidence of anxiety was higher in Group A (P = 0.010). Percentage of patients scoring above 20 in FSFI was significantly higher in Group B (P = 0.003). Oophorectomy and marital status were independent factors for depression (P = 0.009 and <0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Adverse influence on mental and sexual status was severer in women undergoing prophylactic oophorectomy at menopausal transition or postmenopausal period. Comprehensive evaluation may contribute to better ovary conservation strategy for women with benign morbidities.