The surgical menopause

Surgical menopause (iatrogenic menopause) happens when both ovaries are removed before the natural switching off of ovarian function; it can cause premature ovarian insufficiency where the menopause occurs in women before the age of 40. Surgical menopause is associated with a sudden reduction of ovarian sex steroid production rather than a gradual one as is the case in natural menopause. In women who have undergone bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) before the natural age of menopause, strong consideration should be given to giving hormone replacement therapy (HRT) till the natural age of menopause at least. Sexual function and sexual desire are altered post-BSO, especially in younger women hence part of HRT prescription must include consideration of androgen too. (c) 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Automated summary

Surgical menopause, caused by the removal of both ovaries before natural menopause, can lead to premature ovarian insufficiency in women before the age of 40. Hormone replacement therapy should be considered for women who have undergone bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, with attention to androgen therapy for sexual function and desire.