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 low estrogen levels and often infertility.

Some key points about POF:

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


• The causes are often unknown, but can include autoimmune disorders, genetics, chemotherapy treatment, etc.


• Main symptoms are irregular periods or loss of periods, infertility, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.


• Diagnosis is usually done with blood tests for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol. High FSH levels and low estradiol levels indicate ovarian aging.


• Treatments focus on relieving symptoms and preventing complications:
  
  
  • Hormone replacement therapy (estrogen with or without progesterone) for hot flashes, bone loss, etc.
  
  
  • Options to preserve fertility like egg freezing may be considered.
  
  
  • Screening for heart disease and osteoporosis.
  
  

So in summary, POF is due to the loss of normal ovarian function before age 40. While the causes are often unknown, early diagnosis and treatment is important for both short-term symptoms and long-term health.

The specialists at Hormone Harmony can provide cutting-edge testing and personalized treatment plans for women with POF or experiencing menopause-like symptoms before the age of 40. We offer a range of bioidentical hormone therapies to relieve symptoms and maintain optimal health during this challenging transition. Contact us today to learn more and take charge of your hormonal health!