Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when a woman's ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40. This results in menopause-like symptoms such as:
Causes of premature ovarian failure include:
Around 1% of women will experience POF before age 40. Getting diagnosed early is important to understand your health and options. Blood tests for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels can help confirm a POF diagnosis.
While infertility or early menopause can be difficult diagnoses, women can work with their healthcare providers to manage POF symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy may help relieve hot flashes and other issues. Counseling provides support for the emotional impact. And reproductive specialists can discuss paths to conceiving like using an egg donor.
POF disrupts life plans for family or fertility in young women. But patients don't have to navigate POF alone. Understanding this condition and proactively addressing it can help women continue thriving personally and professionally.
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