Premature ovarian failure - Renew Medical Center

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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 diminished ovarian reserve and reduced fertility.

Some key facts about POF:

• It affects roughly 1% of women under age 40.
• The cause is often unknown, but can include genetic factors, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy treatment, pelvic radiation, or infections.
• Main symptoms are irregular periods or missed periods, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and reduced fertility.
• Diagnosis typically involves blood tests for hormone levels (FSH, estradiol) and antral follicle count.
• Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and emotional health. Hormone therapy with estrogen/progestin can help. Some women can still conceive naturally or with assisted reproductive technologies.

Women are understandably distressed when diagnosed with POF given it impacts fertility during peak childbearing years. Common questions that arise:

"What are my chances of getting pregnant with POF?" Even with POF, about 5-10% of women conceive naturally. With donor eggs and/or embryos, success rates for live births improve to 40-60% per transfer. Discuss options with a reproductive endocrinologist.

"How is POF different from early menopause?" The terms overlap. But with POF, ovarian function and menstruation may fluctuate or spontaneously resume in some cases. Early menopause implies permanent loss of menstrual cycles before age 40.

"Should I freeze my eggs when diagnosed with POF?" Sadly, diminished ovarian reserve from POF means egg freezing is often not feasible. The low remaining egg count would likely produce few to no viable embryos.

The emotional impact of POF can't be understated given the implications for family planning and fertility. Having a supportive medical team and connecting with other women dealing with POF can help tremendously. While the diagnosis is life-changing, those affected can still live full, meaningful lives. Be encouraged that there are still paths to motherhood through egg donation. And remember your worth is not defined by fertility alone.