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 causes of POF are often unknown, but can include autoimmune disorders, genetics, chemotherapy treatment, radiation therapy, or infections.

The main sign of POF is irregular or missed menstrual periods, but symptoms can also include:

• Hot flashes


• Night sweats


• Vaginal dryness


• Difficulty getting pregnant

Women with POF generally have lower estrogen levels and higher FSH levels on blood tests. There is no cure for premature ovarian failure, but hormones like estrogen and progesterone can help manage symptoms. Getting pregnant with POF can be difficult, but still possible in some cases with assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization.

What are the risks of premature ovarian failure?

There are several health risks associated with POF to be aware of:

• Infertility: Women with premature ovarian failure often struggle to get pregnant naturally as their ovaries no longer release eggs regularly.


• Osteoporosis: The estrogen deficiency speeds up bone loss and increases fracture risks significantly.


• Heart disease: Lack of estrogen is associated with heart disease risk factors like high cholesterol.


• Early death: Some research shows women with POF have a greater risk of early death. Managing hormones and health screens are important.

If you are struggling with premature ovarian failure, the compassionate doctors at Vital Hormones Clinic can help. We specialize in hormone replacement therapies to relieve symptoms and minimize long term health risks for women with POF. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your treatment options.

How is premature ovarian failure diagnosed?

Doctors will typically diagnose POF based on a woman's symptoms, medical history, physical exam, blood tests, and possibly genetic testing.

Blood tests help measure hormone levels like:

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): FSH levels are elevated when the ovaries no longer work properly.


• Estradiol: Low estradiol levels indicate low estrogen.


• Anti-ovarian antibodies: These antibodies can mistakenly attack the ovaries.

The diagnosis is confirmed if high FSH levels and low estradiol levels persist for at least 4-6 weeks.

What is the treatment for premature ovarian failure?

As there is no cure for POF, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preserving future health. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with estrogen, progesterone or both is typically the main treatment approach.

HRT helps:

• Regulate menstrual cycles


• Relieve hot flashes and night sweats


• Protect bone health


• Improve heart health markers


• Boost energy levels and mood


• Treat vaginal dryness during intercourse

Our physicians at Vital Hormones Clinic specialize in hormone replacement for POF patients. We develop customized bioidentical hormone treatments to help women feel their best while countering the long term risks of estrogen deficiency.

In addition to HRT, we may recommend counseling, fertility preservation, close health monitoring, bone density scans, cardiovascular screening, vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B12, iron supplements, improved diet, regular exercise, and minimized stress.

With an individualized treatment plan focused on hormone optimization and preventative care, most women with POF can lead happy and healthy lives.