Premature menopause, or premature ovarian failure (POF), is a condition in which a woman’s ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40. In premature menopause, the ovaries no longer produce enough hormones, leading to the cessation or disruption of the menstrual cycle. This condition can have various causes, such as genetic factors, autoimmune diseases, or medical interventions. Although premature menopause is relatively rare, it can affect the quality of life and reproductive ability of women, making its prevention and management important.
Symptoms
Women with premature ovarian failure often perceive the condition through the following symptoms
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Amenorrhea
Absence of menstruation, which is the main symptom of POF.
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Hot flashes
Frequent and intense increases in body temperature.
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Irritability and anxiety
Psychological symptoms related to hormonal imbalance.
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Vaginal dryness and decreased libido
Physical symptoms due to a decrease in estrogen.
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Diagnosis of Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is usually not detected until a woman attempts to conceive, as its symptoms are not always obvious. Several techniques are used for its diagnosis.
First, blood tests such as measuring follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which at elevated levels indicates that the body is trying to stimulate the ovaries to produce follicles and eggs. Estradiol, when at low levels, suggests reduced ovarian activity, while the Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), produced by the development of follicles, is typically low in women with POF.
Additionally, transvaginal ultrasound is used to visualize the ovaries and determine the number of antral follicles, with a low number being indicative of POF. In some cases, genetic tests may identify chromosomal abnormalities or mutations, such as in Turner syndrome or Fragile X syndrome.
Finally, POF can be associated with autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks the ovaries, and specific antibody tests help diagnose these cases.
Treatment for Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Estrogens and progestin are used to restore the menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Ovarian Rejuvenation with PRP
An innovative treatment that uses platelets from the woman's own blood to enhance ovarian function, increase egg production, and improve fertility.