User:Mr. Ibrahem/Primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure (POF), is a loss of function of the ovaries before age 40. The initial symptom is generally irregular periods. This is than followed by symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and decreased sex drive. There is also frequently trouble getting pregnant. Other complications may include osteoporosis and heart disease.

The cause is unknown in 90% of cases. Occasionally it may be linked to genetic disorders such as fragile X syndrome or Turner syndrome, thyroiditis, Addison disease, cancer treatment, or toxins such as cigarette smoke. The underlying mechanism is either no remaining ovarian follicles or ovarian follicle dysfunction. Diagnosis is based on no periods for at least 4 months and a high follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level.

Treatment is generally with hormone replacement therapy with estrogen and progesterone. In those who wish to become pregnant options may include in vitro fertilization with egg donation. About 5 to 10% of women become pregnant subsequent to the diagnosis without medical intervention.

Primary ovarian insufficiency, by age 30, affects about 1 in 1,000 and, by age 40, about 1 in 100 women. In those less than 20 it occurs in 1 in 10,000. The term "primary ovarian insufficiency" is preferred and was first used in 1942 by Fuller Albright.