In the news: Mayo Clinic study finds hysterectomy without ovary removal related to increased long-term health risks

Mayo Clinic researchers show that having a hysterectomy and keeping both ovaries poses an increased risk of many cardiovascular diseases and metabolic conditions. 

Shannon Laughlin- Tommaso, M.D., study author and Mayo Clinic OB-GYN says, 

“This study suggests hysterectomy alone has risks, especially for women who undergo hysterectomy prior to age 35. This is the best data to date that shows women undergoing hysterectomy have a risk of long-term disease ─ even when both ovaries are conserved.”

Participants.

There were 2, 094 Olmstead County, Minnesota resident women in the study. A woman who had a hysterectomy without ovary removal was compared to a resident woman of the same age who had not had a hysterectomy or ovary removal.

Dr. Laughlin- Tommaso hopes that the study results will encourage people to think about alternative treatments for fibroids, endometriosis, and prolapse, leading causes of hysterectomy. 

Information adapted from, Research finds hysterectomy alone associated with increased long-term health risks.