You are 55 and going to have an ovarian cyst removed should you the other ovary also?

Whether or not to remove the other ovary during an oophorectomy (removal of an ovary) for an ovarian cyst depends on several factors, including your age, overall health, and the nature of the cyst. Here are some considerations:

Age: At 55, you are considered to be in the perimenopausal or menopausal stage of life. During this time, your ovaries naturally start to produce less estrogen and progesterone, and your menstrual cycles become irregular or stop altogether. As such, the need for both ovaries to function may be reduced.

Overall health: If you are otherwise healthy and have no underlying medical conditions that would affect your ability to tolerate surgery or hormone replacement therapy, removing the other ovary may be considered. However, if you have certain medical conditions, such as a history of heart disease, stroke, or certain types of cancer, your doctor may recommend preserving the remaining ovary to maintain hormonal balance.

Nature of the cyst: The type and characteristics of the ovarian cyst also play a role in the decision-making process. If the cyst is benign (non-cancerous) and does not appear to have any concerning features, it may be sufficient to remove only the affected ovary. However, if the cyst is cancerous or there is suspicion of malignancy, your doctor may recommend removing both ovaries as a preventive measure.

It's important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about your individual situation, including the risks and benefits of removing one or both ovaries. They will be able to provide you with personalized guidance based on your circumstances and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your best interests and overall health.