A questionnaire was sent to Alaskan gynecologists to evaluate their practice in regard to prophylactic oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy. At issue is the possible benefit of prophylactic oophorectomy in the prevention of ovarian cancer. Sixty-seven questionnaires were sent and 42 (63%) were returned completed. The percentage who said they would remove apparently normal ovaries at the time of hysterectomy in premenopausal women is as follows: at 35-39 years, 5%; 40-44, 35%; 45-49, 81% and over 49 years, 95%. In postmenopausal women, 97% would recommend removal of the ovaries. 29% of respondents believe that more than 10% of ovarian cancers could be prevented by prophylactic oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy.