Premature ovarian failure

What is premature ovarian failure?

Premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when a woman's ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40. The ovaries fail to produce adequate levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone as well as stop releasing eggs regularly each month.

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 genetic factors, autoimmune diseases, and certain medical treatments like chemotherapy.


• Symptoms include irregular or missed menstrual periods, struggling to get pregnant, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.


• While ovulation and pregnancy are less likely, POF is not an absolute form of infertility. Some women conceive and deliver healthy babies after a POF diagnosis.


• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with estrogen and progesterone can help manage symptoms. Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks.

I highly recommend any woman struggling with irregular cycles or fertility issues before age 40 get checked out by a gynecologist. Getting diagnosed and treated for POF can improve quality of life. At Renewal Hormone Center, our compassionate doctors specialize in complex hormone imbalances. We offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs with cutting-edge hormone tests and options. Even if your fertility is affected, you have a community. Stay hopeful - medical advances happen every day.

To recap, premature ovarian failure causes the ovaries to lose normal function before natural menopause. It can produce symptoms like infertility and hot flashes. Though challenging, women can still live full, rewarding lives despite POF, especially with proper treatment. Contact Renewal Hormone Center today to discuss your symptoms with a hormone health expert.