Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when a woman's ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40. The ovaries no longer produce normal levels of the hormone estrogen or release eggs regularly, causing infertility.
POF affects about 1% of women under age 40. Its causes are often unknown but can include:
The main sign is not being able to get pregnant after trying for 6 months to 1 year. Other symptoms include:
Many women don’t notice symptoms until they try to conceive. Irregular periods are also common before they stop entirely.
POF is diagnosed with blood tests for levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol. Pelvic ultrasounds check your ovaries and uterus.
At Vitality Hormone Clinic, we create customized hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help relieve POF symptoms. HRT provides estrogen and often progesterone to make up for what your body no longer produces.
Our holistic treatments also help address contributing lifestyle, nutritional, and stress factors. I'd be happy to discuss our individualized programs if you suspect you're experiencing POF.
With treatment, most women with POF can manage symptoms and improve quality of life. However, infertility may still occur. Talk to a fertility specialist about options like using donor eggs.
Some women regain normal ovarian function temporarily. About 5-10% conceive spontaneously after a POF diagnosis. Stay hopeful and explore all paths if you wish to get pregnant. Proper care from specialists like those at Vitality Hormone Clinic can make a big difference.