Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) is the loss of ovarian function in women under the age of 40. In such a condition, the woman does not ovulate (release an egg) each month. This can be due to a dysfunction in the ovaries. If a woman suffers from POF, it becomes very difficult for her to conceive.
It is difficult to pinpoint an exact cause for this condition. There are however, some causes that may likely be identified as the cause for POF. These include:
- Genetic factors
- Exposure to chemotherapy and radiation
- Autoimmune disorder
- Hysterectomy with both ovaries removed
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Viral infection
- Inadequate gondaotropin secretion or action
Some of the symptoms of POF are:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Decrease in sexual drive
- Irritability
- Painful sex
- Thinning and drying of vagina
Treatment Options for Women with POF
Options for women who have POF and desire to have children include using donor eggs, going in for fertility treatments or adoption. Sometimes Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has aided in helping women achieve pregnancy. For women with POF and their families, emotional support is as important as medical treatment for dealing with the condition. With the correct fertility treatment there is hope of getting pregnant. Between 5 percent and 10 percent of women with POF do become pregnant, even without fertility treatment.
POF and Fertility
Egg donation offers significant hope for those desiring pregnancy and is generally the only fertility option available. POF does not affect a woman’s uterus, which means she may be able to carry a child. Egg donation makes it possible to combine donor eggs and sperm in a laboratory, and then place the resulting embryos into the uterus of a woman who has POF. IVF is also used to help in conception. New research on POF may offer more alternative treatment options over the next few years.
If you think you have POF, talk to your gynecologist or reproductive endocrinologist about the possible treatment options. East Bay fertility Center Dublin California, (www.ebfertility.com) specializes in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of infertility providing a complete mind-body experience for fertility couples. East Bay’s experienced medical staff is headed by Dr. Ellen U. Snowden, Medical Director and physician. Dr Snowden is Board Certified in Obstetric, Gynecology, and Reproductive Endocrinology with advanced Fellowship training in the treatment of infertility, recurrent miscarriages and hormonal disorders in women.
Treatment options are pursued based on all known parameters and the preferences of the couple. Call 925.828.9235 for a free initial consultation.
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