Primary Ovarian Insufficiency Symptoms Every Woman Should Know

Introduction

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) occurs when the ovaries fail to function normally. It happens in women before the age of 40 due to reduced estrogen levels. The other name for POI is premature ovarian failure (POF). Insufficiency means that the ovaries do not stop functioning entirely, but ovarian activity may fluctuate. Primary ovarian insufficiency symptoms may mimic the menopause due to hormonal imbalance. Women often get confused, which delays diagnosis. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent fertility issues and also for maintaining good mental health, overall hormonal balance, and living a healthy life. Knowing the symptoms of POF will help women to visit a health care professional and seek medical treatment.

Symptoms of premature ovarian failure?

Premature ovarian failure refers to a problem when the ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40. It results in irregular menstrual cycles, absence of periods, and difficulty achieving conception. POI can occur at an earlier age than menopause, which mainly occurs between 45 and 55 years. In POI, ovarian function diminishes, and women can ovulate occasionally, making the problem unpredictable.

Symptoms of POI may develop slowly or suddenly in some women and may resemble early menopause, due to which women get confused. Knowing what premature ovarian failure symptoms are can help women differentiate them from menopause. The most common primary ovarian insufficiency symptoms include low libido, hot flashes, irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, and ovulation problems.

Main symptoms of POI:

• Women with POI experience vaginal dryness, pain during sexual activity, and discomfort due to low estrogen levels.
• The most prominent indicator of POI is irregular periods. Cycles are highly inconsistent; therefore, bleeding is often minimal to non-existent for many months.
• Women who have POI may experience hot flashes and night sweats because the body is unable to properly regulate its core temperature with a normal amount of estrogen present, which results in unexpected sweating, sudden sensation of heat, and irregular sleep patterns.
• Due to ovulation problems, women may find it difficult to conceive.
• Low sexual drive is another symptom that results in physical and mental stress. This occurs due to low oestrogen levels.
• Hormonal imbalance also causes mood swings, sadness, anger, irritability, or panic attacks. Hormonal imbalance affects neurotransmitters in the body, leading to depression,
• Women will also start experiencing difficulty concentrating, brain fog, and memory issues due to hormonal imbalance.

Knowing the above premature ovarian failure symptoms can help women detect the problem and take the right action, and seek medical support.

When to see a doctor?

You must seek medical care if you experience the following symptoms:

• Mood changes such as irritability, anger, anxiety, or depression.
• Irregular or missed periods for more than 3 months.
• Difficulty conceiving after 6-12 months of trying regularly.
• Symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and low sex drive before 40.
• Difficulty in recognising things or trouble in concentrating.
• Unexplained bone pains, frequent fractures, or loss of height due to osteoporosis.
• Have a family history of autoimmune disorders, POI, or previous radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

If you experience symptoms such as fainting, heavy or prolonged vaginal bleeding, severe pelvic pain, or pregnancy during bleeding, you must immediately visit a doctor. Get a quick medical checkup to rule out emergencies such as severe hormonal dysfunction or ectopic pregnancy.

Conclusion

Understanding primary ovarian insufficiency symptoms can help improve a woman’s reproductive health and overall well-being. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms, such as hormonal imbalances and bone health issues, and provide emotional and psychological support. Women with premature ovarian failure symptoms should not ignore the symptoms. You can lead a healthy life with POI by recognising symptoms early, getting the proper medical care, and making advised lifestyle changes.