Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is the term used to describe when a woman’s ovaries stop working normally before she reaches the age of 40. POI is not the same as early or premature menopause. Many women with POI do not get monthly menstrual periods, or they have them irregularly. Problems with ovulation may make it difficult for women with POI to get pregnant. In addition, women with POI are at higher risk for certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis, than are women who do not have POI.
NICHD studies a range of issues related to POI, including possible causes of and mechanisms involved with POI, conditions associated with POI, and treatments and support for the physical and emotional health of women and families affected by POI.
General Information
For women with POI, irregular periods and reduced fertility occur before the age of 40, sometimes as early as the teenage years.
In most cases, the exact cause of POI is unknown. Research shows that POI is related to problems with the follicles—small sacs in the ovaries in which eggs grow and mature.
If a woman is younger than age 40 and begins having irregular periods or stops having periods for 4 months or longer, her healthcare provider may do exams and tests to learn if she has POI.
Because POI results in lower levels of certain hormones, women with POI are at greater risk for a number of health conditions.
Currently, there is no proven treatment to restore normal function to a woman's ovaries. But there are treatments for some POI symptoms and to reduce health risks and conditions associated with POI.
Research
NICHD conducts and supports research on Primary Ovarian Insufficiency and on many disorders associated with POI.
Find a Study
NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to Primary Ovarian Insufficiency.
More Information
Find answers to other common questions about Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, such as how it affects fertility and its connection to Fragile X syndrome.
Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about Primary Ovarian Insufficiency.
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