By Dr. Bharti Attili
If menopause hits you earlier than expected, you might be facing Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). This condition occurs when your ovaries stop working before age 40, which can feel confusing or stressful. This guide simplifies what POI is, why it happens, and how you can take control with practical steps.
What Is POI and How Common Is It?
POI happens when your ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing hormones like estrogen earlier than normal, leading to irregular or absent periods. Around 3.5% of women experience this, meaning many others share your journey. A blood test confirms the diagnosis. Possible causes include:
- A family history or genetic conditions like Turner syndrome or Fragile X.
- Lifestyle choices such as smoking.
- Medical conditions like autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).
- Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or ovary removal.
In some cases, the reason remains unknown, known as idiopathic POI. Understanding the cause can guide your care, but support is available regardless.
What Are the Symptoms?
Low estrogen levels trigger POI symptoms, which might include:
- Mood swings or feelings of sadness.
- Difficulty sleeping or ongoing tiredness.
- Reduced interest in intimacy.
- Hot flushes and night sweats.
Some women notice POI when they struggle to conceive, as it can impact fertility. These signs vary but can make everyday life challenging.
How Is POI Diagnosed?
POI is identified when you’ve had irregular or no periods for at least four months, confirmed by blood tests showing high FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and low estrogen. If you’re on hormonal therapy, it could affect the results, so your doctor might suggest a break before testing. If POI stems from genetic factors or family patterns, close relatives may benefit from discussing their risk with a healthcare provider, getting tested if needed, and exploring fertility options early.
How Does POI Affect You?
POI can influence your physical and emotional health. It may reduce your quality of life, affect your ability to have children, and increase risks to your bones, heart, and memory. Emotionally, it can be tough, especially if you’re concerned about fertility or adjusting to this change.
Managing POI: Practical Steps to Feel Better
You can manage POI with a healthy lifestyle and medical options. Here’s how:
Healthy Lifestyle Tips
- Get 2.5 hours of exercise weekly to lift your spirits and strengthen your body.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to support your overall wellness.
- Enjoy a nutritious diet to keep your energy up.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT replaces the estrogen your ovaries no longer produce, helping prevent future issues with your bones, heart, and brain. It’s safe if you don’t have a breast cancer history and is recommended until the average menopause age (around 51) to ease symptoms like hot flushes and mood swings. Research shows no increased breast cancer risk up to this age. You can pick the HRT type that suits you, but you’ll still need contraception since HRT doesn’t stop pregnancy.
Regular Checkups
See your doctor at least once a year to monitor your health and adjust your care plan.
Take small steps today to manage POI and embrace a healthier tomorrow.