I'm 35. In 1994 I had my left ovary removed for a large endometrioma. Over the past year, my periods are lighter and shorter in duration, and I have occasional hot flashes. Can a unilateral oophorectomy cause premature menopause?

Mary

People with one ovary may undergo menopause earlier than those with two ovaries. This is most likely if endometriosis involves the other ovary, if you have had surgery on the other ovary previously, or if you are a smoker. I would suggest asking your doctor to measure your FSH and estradiol blood levels to determine whether you are in early menopause.