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 normally before age 40. This results in menopause-like symptoms such as irregular/missed periods, infertility, and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes.

Some key facts about POF:

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


• The exact causes are often unknown, but can include genetics, autoimmune disorders, and certain medical treatments like chemotherapy.


• Diagnosis is typically made via blood tests for hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH).


• Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and often includes hormone replacement therapy.

While the diagnosis can be difficult to cope with, many women go on to conceive and deliver healthy babies, even without medical intervention. Support groups and finding an empathetic medical team is important. Our hormone specialists at Hormone Harmony Clinic provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your symptoms, testing, potential causes, and personal treatment pathway.

What are the symptoms?

The hallmark POF symptom is irregular or missed menstrual cycles. Other symptoms resemble a sudden menopause and include:

• Hot flashes, night sweats


• Vaginal dryness


• Mood changes, poor sleep


• Reduced sex drive (libido)

Heavy, irregular, or painful periods can occur as the ovaries decline in function. With loss of estrogen, some women experience blurred vision, headaches, heart palpitations, or loss of bone density. Pay attention to these non-specific symptoms which might indicate POF.

What causes premature ovarian failure?

Known causes include:

• Genetic factors - family history increases risk


• Autoimmune disease where the body attacks ovarian tissue


• Infections like mumps or tuberculosis


• Medical treatments like surgery, chemotherapy drugs, or radiation

However for many women, no exact cause is found. Theories include abnormalities with chromosomes, enzymes, hormones, or blood flow to the ovaries. Environmental toxins and smoking may play a role. Our specialists stay on top of the latest POF research to better guide treatment.

What are the treatment options?

As there is no cure, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and attempting pregnancy if desired.

• Hormone replacement therapy with estrogen/progesterone to supplement the lack of natural hormones


• Oral contraceptives or ovulation induction agents if trying to conceive


• Monitoring for bone loss, heart disease, vision issues


• Emotional support to cope with the diagnosis

The multidisciplinary team at Hormone Harmony Clinic provides cutting-edge, personalized care. Call today to ask about our POF treatment plans. As an early menopause, the symptoms can be significant but there are many options to explore for symptom relief and an improved quality of life. Stay hopeful!