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Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

Loss of ovarian function before age 40 leads to early menopause.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)?

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a clinical condition characterized by amenorrhea, estrogen deficiency, and elevated FSH (>25 IU/L) before age 40. Incidence is 1% under age 40 and 0.1% under age 30.

Causes of POI include idiopathic (most common), genetic (Turner syndrome, FMR1 premutation, autosomal defects), autoimmune, iatrogenic (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery), and metabolic etiologies.

POI carries long-term risks beyond fertility loss, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, cognitive impairment, and depression. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is recommended until the physiologic age of menopause.

Symptoms

Irregular or stopped menses (before age 40)
Hot flashes and night sweats
Vaginal dryness
Sleep disturbances and fatigue
Mood changes and depressive symptoms
Difficulty conceiving

Risk Factors

Family history of POI
FMR1 premutation carriership
Turner syndrome or its mosaic forms
Autoimmune thyroid or Addison disease
History of chemotherapy or pelvic radiotherapy
Ovarian surgery

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When menstrual irregularity or amenorrhea occurs before age 40
  • When menopausal symptoms appear young
  • Difficulty conceiving with low ovarian reserve testing
  • When fertility preservation (oocyte freezing) is considered for family planning

Treatment Methods

01
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): until the physiologic age of menopause (51)
02
Osteoporosis prevention: calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonate if needed
03
Psychological support and counseling
04
Pregnancy: donor egg IVF offers the highest success rate
05
Fertility preservation: ovarian tissue/oocyte freezing before cancer therapy
06
Treatment of underlying autoimmune disease

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.