Ovary Removal — VA Disability Rating (DC 7619)
Diagnostic Code 7619 · 38 CFR §4.116
What Is It?
DC 7619 covers the surgical removal of one or both ovaries (oophorectomy). The rating depends on whether one or both ovaries were removed. Removal of both ovaries causes immediate surgical menopause with significant health consequences. Removal of one ovary typically allows the remaining ovary to compensate for hormone production. The VA provides a temporary 100 percent rating for three months after surgery, then rates based on how many ovaries were removed. Veterans may require ovary removal due to cysts, torsion, endometriomas, tumors, or trauma sustained during service.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Assigned for three months immediately following the ovary removal surgery to allow for recovery. |
| 30% | Complete removal of both ovaries. This reflects the permanent loss of ovarian hormone production and the resulting surgical menopause. |
| 0% | Removal of one ovary with or without partial removal of the other. The remaining ovary typically compensates for hormone production. |
Evidence Needed
The operative report documenting the oophorectomy is essential, clearly stating whether one or both ovaries were removed. Pathology results explaining why the ovary was removed support the claim. If both ovaries were removed, hormone level testing confirming the loss of ovarian function documents the impact. Records of post-surgical complications like adhesions or chronic pain demonstrate residual disability. Service treatment records linking the condition requiring surgery to military service establish the connection.
C&P Exam Tips
Describe any ongoing symptoms since the surgery, including pain, hormonal changes, or menstrual irregularities. If both ovaries were removed, describe all menopausal symptoms: hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, and bone density concerns. If only one ovary was removed, report any hormonal shifts you have noticed. Mention if the remaining ovary has developed problems since the surgery.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ listing the ovary removal under DC 7619. Include the surgical report and pathology results. Provide service records connecting the condition to military service. If both ovaries were removed, also apply for special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ. File secondary condition claims for any additional effects like osteoporosis or depression.
Common Mistakes
Assuming removal of one ovary is not worth claiming — even a 0 percent service-connected rating preserves access to VA healthcare for that condition Not documenting residual symptoms like pain or hormonal changes after surgery Not applying for special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ when both ovaries are removed Failing to monitor and claim problems that develop in the remaining ovary after unilateral removal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is removal of one ovary considered loss of a creative organ?
Generally, removal of one ovary does not qualify for special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ, because the remaining ovary preserves reproductive function. However, if the remaining ovary also becomes non-functional due to a service-connected condition, SMC under 38 USC 1114(k) may apply. There is also a special provision: if one ovary was removed due to service and the other is absent or non-functioning for unrelated reasons, the VA assigns a 30 percent rating for the service-connected loss.
Should I claim problems with my remaining ovary?
Yes. If your remaining ovary develops issues (cysts, dysfunction, pain), these can be claimed as secondary conditions if related to whatever caused the first ovary to be removed. This is especially important because losing the remaining ovary would change your rating picture significantly.