Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when a woman's ovaries stop functioning properly before age 40. The ovaries do not produce enough hormones or release eggs regularly, causing infertility issues.
Some key facts about POF:
- It affects roughly 1% of women under age 40, or 1 in 100 women.
- The cause is often unknown, but can include genetics, autoimmune disorders, cancer treatment radiation/chemotherapy, or infections.
- Symptoms include irregular periods, reduced fertility, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and night sweats.
- It is usually diagnosed with blood tests for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen levels.
Treatment options focus on managing symptoms and attempting pregnancy:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with estrogen and progestin helps stabilize hormones for symptom relief. This does not improve fertility though.
- Oocyte cryopreservation (egg freezing) before age 35 can preserve fertility potential. The eggs can be later thawed, fertilized, and transferred.
- Ovarian tissue freezing is an experimental option to restore ovarian function and fertility in the future.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs may enable pregnancy when paired with sperm injection directly into eggs.
For personalized treatment plans or second opinions, the physicians at
Hormone Harmony specialize in reproductive issues like POF. Their integrated care teams work one-on-one with women to understand their health history and goals in order to design customized protocols. Hormone Harmony' state-of-the-art facilities and research leadership in ovarian rejuvenation unlocks new possibilities for those diagnosed with POF.
While emotionally difficult to accept, POF diagnosis does not mean a woman cannot have children at all. Emerging
fertility preservation technologies and donor programs provide Hope. With an early diagnosis, proactive steps can improve chances later; regular OB/GYN oversight ensures optimization. Seeking knowledgeable specialists' counsel navigates the options. Though difficult news, women dealing with POF should know quality resources exist - and futures with families remain achievable.