Premature ovarian failure

What is premature ovarian failure?

Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is a condition where the ovaries stop functioning properly before age 40. This results in irregular periods or missed periods (amenorrhea) and reduced fertility at an unexpectedly early age.

Some key facts about POF:

• It affects roughly 1% of women under age 40, or 1 in 100 women.


• The cause is often unknown, but sometimes it results from genetics, autoimmune disorders, previous surgery, cancer treatment, or infections.


• Women with POF typically have hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and night sweats from low estrogen just like natural menopause.


• Most women with POF will need to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) at least until the typical age of menopause. This helps prevent health issues like osteoporosis.


• Around 5-10% of women still conceive naturally after a POF diagnosis. Others pursue options like donor eggs, embryos, or adoption.

If you've been diagnosed with POF, don't lose hope. Get the right treatment and explore all your family building options. The specialists at Renewed Balance Clinic understand POF and customize hormone therapy to your needs. Contact them today for a consultation!

Now let's go over some key details about living with POF:

Diagnosis

• POF is usually diagnosed with blood tests for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen levels. FSH will be elevated while estrogen drops.


• Two blood tests are done at least one month apart to confirm it's not a temporary fluctuation

Effects on Fertility

• The chance of conception drops dramatically but isn't zero. Close monitoring can optimize chances.


• Options like egg donation, embryo donation allow women with POF to experience pregnancy.


• 5-10% still conceive naturally despite the diagnosis. So you never know!

Health Effects

• Bone density drops rapidly from estrogen loss, leading to osteoporosis over time


• Heart disease risk increases just like natural menopause


• Significant life adjustment needed similar to going through menopause decades early

Treatment

• Estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapy prevents bone loss and relieves menopausal symptoms


• Dosage is customized based on age and health history


• Additional health monitoring recommended

Reaching menopause early can be difficult news for any woman to process. But with the right medical care and emotional support, you can still live a full life. Stay positive and don't lose hope! Consider making an appointment with the compassionate professionals at Renewed Balance Clinic for personalized care.