Premature ovarian failure - Equilibrium Hormone Center

Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)

Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is a loss of normal function of the ovaries before age 40. The ovaries stop producing normal levels of the hormone estrogen, which causes menstrual periods to become irregular or stop altogether.

POF happens when a woman's ovaries stop working normally before she is 40. As a result, she loses her period and her ability to have children. This early menopause leads to infertility and long-term health problems related to low estrogen levels.

Some key facts about POF:

• It affects 1% of women under age 40.
• The cause is often unknown, but risk factors include autoimmune disorders, genetics, and cancer treatment.
• Symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and fertility problems.
• It is usually diagnosed with blood tests for hormone levels including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
• Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with hormone therapy and dealing with emotional issues around infertility.

While the exact cause of POF is not always clear, potential factors include:

• Autoimmune diseases, when the immune system attacks healthy tissue. About 20-30% of cases may be autoimmune.
• Genetic conditions like fragile X syndrome and Turner's syndrome.
• Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
• Infections like malaria or tuberculosis.
• Toxins like cigarette smoke.

The main symptom of POF is irregular periods, including light/heavy cycles, skipped cycles, or no period at all for months. Many women do not connect this to menopause since they are so young. Over time, POF leads to infertility and menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, and emotional changes.

If you suspect you have POF based on these symptoms, see your doctor. They will run blood tests to measure your FSH, estrogen, and AMH hormone levels, which are typically abnormal. They may also check your chromosomes, ovaries, thyroid, and adrenal function. Once diagnosed, treating the symptoms is key to managing POF. Talk to your doctor about all your options.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Equilibrium Hormone Center.