Premature Ovarian Failure

Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) is a loss of ovarian function in younger
women. Women with POF have eggs that are less or not capable to become fertilized. POF is among the reasons women have difficulties getting pregnant.

POF is associated with:

• Amenorrhea (no menstrual period)
• Low estrogen
• Elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) 

In general, the diagnosis requires at least three to four months of amenorrhea as well as two FSH tests, taken at least one month apart, that are greater than 40 mIU/ML.

A while back it was thought that POF, like menopause, meant a total lack of eggs. It was called "premature" to signify that it started at an earlier-than-normal age. However, menopause appears to be permanent with a loss of ovarian activity, while POF is not always permanent.

When the ovaries of women with POF are looked at on pelvic ultrasound, approximately 40% of the women have structures that appear to be ovarian follicles. Today, we know that women with Premature Ovarian Failure intermittently produce estrogen and ovulate. This is why the term Premature Ovarian Failure is preferred to premature menopause. Menopause means complete cessation of periods.

In some cases, Premature Ovarian Failure may be reversible. POF can be temporary or periodic and there can be residual ovarian function. Even with high FSH levels women may intermittently produce estrogen and even ovulate.