Theovariesare a pair of female glands that are involved in themenstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.
The ovaries produce the hormonesestrogenandprogesteroneand also contain an individuals eggs.
Seventy Four / Getty Images
Primary ovarian insufficiency can lead to irregular periods and infertility.
Seventy Four / Getty Images
This condition is different frompremature menopause.
This article describes the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options for primary ovarian insufficiency.
Symptoms
The first sign of primary ovarian insufficiency is usually a change in the menstrual cycle.
Common symptoms include:
Causes
The exact cause of primary ovarian insufficiency is usually unknown.
In fact, the cause can only be determined in about 10% of cases.
In primary ovarian insufficiency, the follicles either do not function properly or run out earlier than expected.
They will also ask several questions about your menstrual cycle and how long it has been irregular or absent.
Treatments are usually aimed at addressing the symptoms and possible complications.
Its believed that primary ovarian insufficiency is due to a change in the follicles.
Treatments are aimed at addressing the symptoms and may include hormone therapy and calcium supplements.
IVF may be used to increase the chances of becoming pregnant.
It is normal to experience a sense of loss at the time of diagnosis.
Because the cause is usually unknown, it is not possible to prevent primary ovarian insufficiency.
Absent or irregular menstrual cycles are often the first sign of this disease.
About 5%10% of individuals with primary ovarian insufficiency will be able to conceive without medical intervention.
National Cancer Institute.Definition of ovary.
National Institute of Child and Human Development.About primary ovarian insufficiency.
National Institute of Child and Human Development.What causes POI?
National Institute of Child and Human Development.How do healthcare providers diagnose POI?
MedlinePlus.Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels test.
MedlinePlus.Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels test.
Center for Young Womens Health.Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI).
National Institute of Child and Human Development.What are the treatments for POI?
National Institutes of Health.Hormone treatment restores bone density for young women with menopause-like condition.
National Institute of Child and Human Development.Are there disorders or conditions associated with POI?
Endocrine Society.Primary ovarian insufficiency.
2021 Dec 8;14(1):172. doi:10.1186/s13048-021-00923-9
