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 produce fewer hormones and fewer mature eggs, causing irregular periods or amenorrhea (absent periods) and reduced fertility.

Some key points about POF:

• It affects roughly 1% of women under age 40, or 1 in 100 women.


• The causes are often unknown, but can include genetic factors, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy treatment, or injuries/surgery involving the ovaries.


• Symptoms besides absent/irregular periods may include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and difficulty conceiving naturally.


• There is no cure, but hormones like estrogen and progesterone can help manage symptoms. Egg donation may be an option to help achieve pregnancy.


• Although fertility is reduced, occasional spontaneous pregnancies can still occur in 5-10% of women with POF.

If you suspect you're experiencing POF, see your gynecologist or reproductive endocrinologist for blood tests to measure your hormone levels, particularly AMH and FSH. They can confirm a diagnosis and discuss treatment to manage symptoms.

Our compassionate team at Renewal Hormone Clinic specializes in reproductive disorders including premature ovarian failure. We provide individualized care including hormone therapy, fertility preservation, emotional support, and the latest scientific advances.

I hope this overview on POF was helpful! Please ask any other questions you may have below. As an endocrinologist passionate about supporting women with reproductive health challenges, I'm here to listen and provide guidance. Take care!