Removing both ovaries (and fallopian tubes) greatly lowers but does not completely eliminate a woman's risk of developing ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer

Analysis

Many patients assume that removing the ovaries eliminates cancer risk because the disease is named after the organ. This overlooks the fact that high‑grade serous cancers often originate in the fallopian tube or peritoneal epithelium, which remain after surgery. Media headlines that claim "removing ovaries eliminates ovarian cancer" can give false reassurance, leading some women to skip recommended follow‑up or ignore lingering symptoms. Understanding the residual risk is important for informed decision‑making, especially for women considering risk‑reducing surgery due to genetic predisposition; they should continue regular surveillance for primary peritoneal disease and discuss hormonal replacement options to manage surgical menopause.