Does Ovarian Surgery Affect Your Menstrual Cycle? Post-Op Changes

Will surgery on the ovaries affect the menstrual cycle?

I had surgery for an ovarian tubo-ovarian abscess at the beginning of August.
Three weeks after the surgery, my menstrual period started and lasted for about a week.
After it ended, I continued to have discharge, and on the fifth day after the period ended, I started bleeding again.
The bleeding lasted for two days and increased in volume each day.
Could this possibly be another menstrual period? Does surgery on the ovaries affect the menstrual cycle?

sa, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/09/07

Dr. Zhang Yongxuan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Any surgical procedures on reproductive organs, such as sterilization, excision, or the removal of an intrauterine device (IUD), can affect the menstrual cycle for up to three months or even six months afterward.
The cycle may return to normal after some time.
However, if bleeding persists, it is necessary to seek outpatient evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2008/09/07

More Info

Ovarian surgery can indeed have an impact on your menstrual cycle, and it is important to understand the potential changes that may occur following such a procedure. When you undergo surgery on the ovaries or fallopian tubes, several factors can influence your menstrual cycle, including hormonal changes, the surgical technique used, and the underlying condition that necessitated the surgery.

Firstly, it's essential to recognize that the ovaries play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. They produce hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which are vital for the development of the uterine lining and the timing of menstruation. If surgery involves the removal of ovarian tissue or affects the blood supply to the ovaries, it can lead to changes in hormone production, which may, in turn, affect your menstrual cycle.

In your case, experiencing a menstrual period three weeks after surgery, followed by unusual bleeding and discharge, could be attributed to several factors. Post-operative bleeding can occur due to the healing process, especially if the surgery was extensive or if there was manipulation of the surrounding tissues. It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular bleeding or spotting after ovarian surgery, as the body adjusts to the changes. This could manifest as a continuation of your menstrual cycle or as breakthrough bleeding, which is bleeding that occurs between periods.

Additionally, the presence of discharge after your period could be related to hormonal fluctuations. After surgery, your body may take some time to recalibrate its hormonal balance, leading to variations in your menstrual cycle. It is also possible that the discharge you are experiencing is related to the healing process, as the body may produce more cervical mucus during this time.

If the bleeding you are experiencing is heavier than your typical menstrual flow or lasts longer than expected, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They may want to rule out any complications, such as infection or retained tissue, which could lead to abnormal bleeding. Furthermore, if you have any concerns about the nature of the discharge or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or fever, seeking medical advice is essential.

In summary, ovarian surgery can affect your menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes and the body's healing process. While some irregularities in bleeding can be expected, it is important to monitor your symptoms and communicate with your healthcare provider to ensure that everything is progressing normally. Regular follow-up appointments and open communication with your doctor can help address any concerns and provide reassurance as your body adjusts post-surgery.

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