Premature ovarian failure - Balance Hormones Clinic

Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)

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 infertility and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.

Some key facts about POF:

• It affects roughly 1% of women under age 40.
• The causes are often unknown but can include genetics, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or infections.
• Blood tests for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels are used to diagnose it. FSH will be elevated when ovarian function declines.
• Treatments focus on managing symptoms and emotional health. Hormone therapy may help. Some women may still get sporadic ovarian function resulting in occasional ovulation.
• There are risks like osteoporosis and heart disease if estrogen levels remain low long-term. Monitoring bone mineral density is important.
• Options for becoming a parent include using an egg donor or embryo adoption. Talking to a reproductive endocrinologist at a clinic like Balance Hormones Clinic helps explain family building choices.

The diagnosis often comes as a shock at a young age. Having a strong support system is crucial. Connecting with others going through POF can help. Resilience when dealing with grief, life changes, and the unknown is something many develop. There are still kindnesses, joys, passions, and purpose to be found in life despite fertility loss.