BC Cancer Prevention Initiative

A simple step that could prevent ovarian cancer

Opportunistic salpingectomy — removing the fallopian tubes during a surgery you're already having — is one of the most promising strategies to reduce ovarian cancer in British Columbia.

Heard us on the podcast? You're in the right place.

The problem

Ovarian cancer is hard to catch early

Ovarian cancer has no reliable screening test. Most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment is far more difficult. It is one of the deadliest gynecologic cancers for women in Canada.

But science has revealed something important: most high-grade ovarian cancers likely start in the fallopian tubes — not the ovaries themselves. That changes what prevention can look like.

    ~80%
    of high-grade ovarian cancers may originate in the fallopian tubes
  
    3rd
    most common cause of gynecologic cancer death in Canada
  
    1 in 78
    Canadian women will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime

The Solution

Ovarian cancer is hard to catch early

Opportunistic salpingectomy (OS) means removing both fallopian tubes at the time of another planned pelvic surgery — such as a hysterectomy, cesarean section, or laparoscopic procedure — when a woman no longer desires to have children.

The surgery adds only a few minutes to an existing procedure, carries minimal added risk, and eliminates a key site where ovarian cancer can begin. Your ovaries remain completely intact.

One

You're already having pelvic surgery

This could be a hysterectomy, tubal ligation, c-section, or other laparoscopic procedure.

Two

Your surgeon removes both fallopian tubes

A short, low-risk addition to your existing procedure. Your ovaries stay in place — no impact on hormones or menopause timing.

Three

You eliminate a major cancer risk site

Research suggests OS can reduce ovarian cancer risk significantly. BC has been a world leader in recommending this approach.

Common questions

What people ask most

Will removing my fallopian tubes cause early menopause?

No. Your ovaries remain completely intact. Early menopause is caused by ovary removal (oophorectomy), not salpingectomy. Your hormones, menstrual cycles, and natural menopause timeline are unaffected.

Who is a candidate for OS?

Anyone with fallopian tubes who is already scheduled for pelvic surgery and does not wish to become pregnant in the future. This includes people undergoing hysterectomy, cesarean section, laparoscopy, or tubal ligation. Ask your surgeon whether it applies to your situation.

Is this covered by BC's health system?

Yes. Opportunistic salpingectomy is covered by the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) when performed at the time of another insured pelvic surgery. There is no additional cost to patients.

Does it replace the need for regular gynecologic checkups?

No. OS is one preventive measure, not a substitute for routine care. Regular checkups, Pap smears, and cancer screening remain important for overall health.

How much does it add to my surgery time?

Typically 10 to 15 minutes. In experienced hands, the added operative time is minimal and is not considered to meaningfully increase overall surgical risk.

Why isn't this standard practice everywhere?

Awareness varies widely. BC has been a world leader — the province formally recommended OS in 2010 and has seen significant uptake. But many patients are still not offered it or don't know to ask. That's exactly why this initiative exists.

I heard about this on a podcast — what's my next step?

Great first step. Watch the short documentary above, then bring it up at your next appointment with your gynecologist or surgeon. Ask: "Would I be a candidate for opportunistic salpingectomy?" It's a simple question that could make a significant difference.

One conversation with your surgeon could matter.

Ask whether opportunistic salpingectomy is right for you before your next pelvic surgery.

Download the conversation guide