Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is a condition characterized by loss of normal functioning of the ovaries before age 40. The ovaries stop producing adequate levels of the hormone estrogen, which can cause symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, and menopausal symptoms.
Some key points about POF:
- It affects around 1% of women under age 40. The cause is often unknown.
- Main signs are irregular periods or missed periods and menopause-like symptoms like hot flashes. Blood tests show high follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels.
- Around 10% of women with POF can still conceive naturally despite low estrogen. But most require assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Long-term health risks include osteoporosis and heart disease without proper hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Talk to your doctor about options.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preserving fertility if desired:
- HRT with estrogen/progestin patches or pills relieves hot flashes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis risk.
- Infertility treatments like egg donation, embryo donation, or ovum cryopreservation before POF onset may allow pregnancy.
- Evaluating risk of autoimmune disorders like thyroid disease which are more common.
While coping with POF can be emotionally difficult, support groups and finding an empathetic medical team can help. Research also continues to uncover new ways to preserve fertility for women diagnosed with premature ovarian failure at a young age.
The key is working closely with your doctor for
hormone testing, symptom management, and if desired, assisted reproductive treatments.
Reach out to Optimum Hormone Solutions to discuss a personalized plan just for your POF needs. Our compassionate team is here to support you.