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Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)
Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when a woman's ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40. The ovaries make fewer eggs, and hormones like estrogen and progesterone decline.
What causes premature ovarian failure? There are several potential causes:
- Genetic factors - Family history of early menopause increases POF risk. Genetic conditions like Turner syndrome and fragile X syndrome are linked to POF.
- Autoimmune disease - Diseases where the immune system attacks the body, like hypothyroidism, can damage ovaries.
- Cancer treatment - Radiation therapy and chemotherapy, most commonly for Hodgkin's lymphoma, breast cancer, and childhood cancers can hurt the ovaries.
What are the symptoms of POF?
The main signs are similar to natural menopause:
- Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
- Hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness from low estrogen
- Difficulty getting pregnant due to low egg supply
Some women with POF have no signs at all. Testing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels can confirm ovarian function loss before age 40.
What is the treatment and outlook for POF?
Though treatment can't restore normal ovarian function, it can help relieve symptoms:
- Hormone therapy with estrogen or combined estrogen/progesterone helps hot flashes, bone loss.
- Egg donation may be an option for some women who want to become pregnant.
- Counseling for psychological effects like depression. Connecting with support groups.
The prognosis for women with POF varies. Periods and fertility may spontaneously return for some but not all. Patients should see an endocrinologist or gynecologist specializing in reproductive medicine at Rejuvenate Clinic for individualized treatment.
Early menopause can increase risks for heart disease and osteoporosis. Working closely with your medical team can help prevent long-term complications. With proper management, many women with POF can live full, healthy lives.