Premature ovarian failure - Hormone Wellness Center

What is premature ovarian failure?

Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is a condition where the ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40. This results in amenorrhea (lack of menstrual periods), infertility, and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.

Some key points about POF:

• It impacts ~1% of women under age 40, or 1 in 100 young women
• The causes are often unknown, but can include genetics, autoimmune disorders, and cancer treatments like chemotherapy
• Women with POF typically have low estrogen levels but may still ovulate occasionally
• Pregnancy is rare but possible in some cases

Diagnosis involves blood tests for hormone levels (FSH, estradiol) and may include genetic testing or ovarian imaging.

Treatment options aim to manage symptoms and include:

• Hormone replacement therapy with estrogen/progestin to relieve menopausal symptoms
• Fertility treatments like IVF with egg donation in some cases
• Education and support for coping with the condition

What are the symptoms of premature ovarian failure?

The main symptoms related to estrogen deficiency include:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood changes like depression or anxiety
• Difficulty sleeping
• Decreased bone density over time

Symptoms typically start before age 40 in women with POF. Irregular or absent menstrual periods are also common. Some women notice fertility problems as the first warning sign.

Is pregnancy possible with premature ovarian failure?

Pregnancy is rare but possible in some cases. Approximately 5-10% of women with POF may ovulate periodically and release an egg. The odds increase if periods are still occurring sometimes. Using donor eggs can enable pregnancy through IVF.