hysterectomy and ovarian function: exploring the complex relationship

The preservation of ovarian function following hysterectomy has sparked considerable debate among gynecologists. while there is increasing acknowledgment of the importance of retaining the ovaries during hysterectomy for benign conditions, many practitioners continue to recommend their removal. prophylactic oophorectomy may lower the risk of ovarian cancer in women deemed high-risk; however, it can also pose unnecessary health risks to low-risk women by elevating cardiovascular risks. recent evidence indicates that ovarian cancer may originate from the tubal epithelium, suggesting that salpingectomy could serve as a viable alternative that preserves ovarian function while mitigating cancer risk. this review evaluates the effects of hysterectomy on ovarian function and reviews existing evidence regarding the impact of other gynecological procedures on ovarian health. ultimately, prioritizing the preservation of ovarian function during hysterectomy for benign conditions is essential, with salpingectomy emerging as a promising approach to balance cancer risk reduction and hormonal health.