Premature ovarian failure

What is premature ovarian failure?

Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is a condition characterized by loss of normal function of the ovaries before age 40. The ovaries stop producing normal levels of the hormone estrogen, which causes symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes.

Some key facts about POF:

• It affects ~1% of women under age 40, or 1 in 100 young women
• The cause is often unknown, but can include genetics, autoimmune disease, chemotherapy treatment, or infections
• Women with POF typically have irregular or missed periods and reduced fertility
• They also have menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes
• Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms with hormone therapy and dealing with psychological effects

Diagnosing Premature Ovarian Failure

Doctors diagnose POF based on a woman's symptoms, medical history, physical exam, and blood tests examining hormone levels. Two blood tests that may be done are:

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) - FSH levels are elevated when the ovaries' egg follicles are no longer maturing properly
• Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) - AMH is produced by follicles and declines in POF

If tests indicate elevated FSH/low AMH by age 40, POF is usually diagnosed.

Effects of Premature Ovarian Failure

The decreased estrogen and loss of fertility associated with POF can significantly impact a woman's physical health and emotional well-being:

• Infertility: Most women with POF struggle to get pregnant without assisted reproductive technologies like egg donation or embryo adoption
• Menopausal symptoms: Women experience symptoms typical of menopause like hot flashes, vaginal atrophy, and sleep disruption
• Bone loss: Estrogen plays a role in bone density, so osteoporosis risk increases
• Heart disease: Lower estrogen is associated with higher cholesterol and heart disease risk
• Emotional health: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem related to infertility and menopause are common

Our compassionate doctors at Optimal Hormone Solutions understand the profound impact POF can have at a young age. We specialize in helping women with premature ovarian failure,tailoring custom bioidentical hormone therapy to provide relief from symptoms and optimize long-term health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our fertility specialists!

Treatments for Premature Ovarian Failure

While there is no cure for POF, various treatments can help manage symptoms:

• Hormone therapy - Estrogen/progesterone prescribed to relieve hot flashes, vaginal atrophy
• Osteoporosis prevention - Bisphosphonates or calcium/Vitamin D to maintain bone density
• Emotional support - Counseling or support groups to cope with psychological effects
• Donor eggs/embryos - Using another woman's eggs or embryos to achieve pregnancy

The course of POF treatment is highly individualized for each patient based on her symptoms and goals. With the help of a good medical team, women with POF can manage symptoms, lower risks for related conditions, and explore options for becoming mothers despite fertility challenges.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key to optimizing health and quality of life for women affected by premature ovarian failure. Research continues to uncover new information about detecting and managing POF across the reproductive lifespan.