FTM oophorectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the ovaries in transgender men. Ovaries are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. In FTM oophorectomy, one or both ovaries may be removed.
There are several reasons why an FTM individual might choose to have an oophorectomy. Some people may feel that having ovaries is incompatible with their gender identity. Others may be concerned about the risk of developing ovarian cancer, which is more common in women than in men. Still others may simply want to reduce their risk of experiencing menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
FTM oophorectomy can be performed laparoscopically, which means that the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen. This is a minimally invasive procedure that typically results in a shorter recovery time than an open oophorectomy, which requires a larger incision.
The decision of whether or not to have an oophorectomy is a personal one. There are both risks and benefits to consider, and the best decision for one person may not be the best decision for another. It is important to talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits of oophorectomy before making a decision.
Here are some of the risks of FTM oophorectomy:
- Early menopause: If both ovaries are removed, the individual will experience menopause, which can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
- Increased risk of osteoporosis: Ovarian hormones help to protect bones from thinning, so removing the ovaries can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Increased risk of heart disease: Ovarian hormones help to protect the heart, so removing the ovaries can increase the risk of heart disease.
Here are some of the benefits of FTM oophorectomy:
- Reduced risk of ovarian cancer: Ovarian cancer is more common in women than in men, so removing the ovaries can reduce the risk of developing this cancer.
- Reduced risk of endometrial cancer: The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. If the ovaries are removed, the endometrium will no longer be stimulated by ovarian hormones, which can reduce the risk of developing endometrial cancer.
- Improved gender affirmation: Some transgender men feel that having ovaries is incompatible with their gender identity. Removing the ovaries can help to affirm their gender identity.
If you are considering FTM oophorectomy, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this surgery. You should also talk to your doctor about whether or not you should keep one or both ovaries.
An FTM (Female to Male) oophorectomy surgery, also known as an ovariectomy or removal of the ovaries, is a surgical procedure in which the ovaries are surgically removed from an individual assigned female at birth who is transitioning to male. This surgery is performed as part of gender-affirming care for transgender men and aims to align the individual’s physical body with their gender identity.
The removal of the ovaries in FTM oophorectomy surgery helps to reduce or eliminate the production of estrogen and progesterone, which are the primary hormones produced by the ovaries. By removing the ovaries, the individual’s hormone levels can be managed through hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to provide a more masculinizing hormone profile.
FTM oophorectomy surgery is often performed in combination with other gender-affirming procedures such as chest masculinization (top surgery) or genital reconstruction surgery (phalloplasty or metoidioplasty). The specific timing and sequencing of these procedures can vary based on individual needs, preferences, and healthcare provider recommendations.
It is important to have a comprehensive evaluation and discussion with a knowledgeable healthcare provider who specializes in transgender healthcare. They can guide you through the process, explain the potential benefits and risks of the surgery, discuss hormone management options, and ensure that the procedure aligns with your individual goals and overall well-being.
Please note that I’m an AI language model and cannot provide medical advice or perform surgery. It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and care.