A salpingectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed at ESSE Care. It means the removal of one or both fallopian tubes, and there are different reasons why someone might need it.
Why Someone Might Have This Surgery
In some cases, a fallopian tube needs to be removed because it is abnormal and causing pain, or it has become swollen with fluid, a condition often referred to as a hydrosalpinx, which can also get in the way of getting pregnant. In other cases, salpingectomy is performed as a means of birth control. Sometimes the fallopian tubes are removed during another procedure, such as a hysterectomy.
What to Expect From the Procedure
The surgery is generally performed using a minimally invasive approach, meaning it is done in the hospital and most of the time you go home the same day.
Will It Affect My Hormones or Cause Menopause?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask. The answer is no. Your fallopian tubes are different from your ovaries. Your ovaries live nearby, but it is the ovaries that produce your hormones. If one or both fallopian tubes are removed, your hormones should not change, you will not go into menopause, and it should not alter your cycle.
An Additional Benefit Many Patients Are Not Aware Of
There is data indicating that removal of the fallopian tubes may decrease the risk of ovarian cancer. This is an important point that often goes unmentioned, and it is worth discussing with your care team when considering your options.
What You Will Learn
- What a salpingectomy is and why it may be recommended
- The difference between your fallopian tubes and your ovaries
- Why salpingectomy does not cause menopause or hormonal changes
- The potential ovarian cancer risk reduction benefit
The Takeaway
If you have questions about whether a salpingectomy is right for you, the team at ESSE Care is here to help you understand your options and make an informed decision.
