About Hysterectomy and oophorectomy
Drs. Tami Rowen and Gaetan Pettigrew offer this surgery within our program as part of gender affirming care for transmasculine patients.
You will have a full intake prior to scheduling surgery where we will discuss the surgery type, review the role of removing the ovaries (oophorectomy) and the route of removing the uterus (hysterectomy). For most patients a minimally invasive approach is offered, either transvaginally or via laparoscopy (making very small incisions on the abdomen). UCSF gynecology is unique in its ability to offer an alternative to laparoscopy or open surgery, meaning you may be able to obtain a hysterectomy that leaves no scars on your abdomen at all. If you are interested in this type of procedure please feel free to inquire with your referring provider or gynecologic surgeon. We also offer vaginectomy (removing vaginal tissue and closure of the entrance) if it is desired.
Should you remove your ovaries?
This is a very personal decision. There is conflicting evidence on the role of the estrogen produced by the ovaries on the risk of heart disease or osteoporosis. Keeping an ovary can mean that you continue to experience cyclic hormonal symptoms, even without a uterus or menstruation. The ovaries also contain eggs for reproduction. Even without a uterus you can still use the eggs for a pregnancy. Thus if you are interested in having this option it may be beneficial to retain the ovaries. We are happy to discuss this further in your initial visit and in the surgical planning. For those patients not interested in future reproduction and who intend to continue on long term testosterone therapy at least until age 50, keeping a single ovary is likely of minimal if any benefit.
Surgical assessment and referral process
At UCSF, we want you to have the best possible result from your surgery with the greatest satisfaction. UCSF criteria for surgery are based on the World Professional Association for Transgender Health SOC (Standards of Care) 7th Edition, and are required by most insurance companies. Prior to scheduling your initial consultation, please send the following:
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Your insurance card and identification
- Undergo an assessment and obtain referral documentation in line with WPATH guidelines. More detail on this process and the requirements can be found here.
Referral letters and documentation should be faxed or e-mailed to:
UCSF Gender Affirming Health Program
415-885-7770
415-353-3399 fax
[email protected]
Please include your legal name, chosen name (if different), and date of birth with all communication.