Primary ovarian failure (POF), also known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), occurs when the ovaries lose normal function before the age of 40. This condition can cause irregular or absent menstrual periods, low oestrogen levels, and reduced fertility. Unlike natural menopause, which typically happens around age 50, POI can develop suddenly or gradually, often leaving women with unanswered questions about their health and future.
At Marble Arch Health, we understand the emotional and physical challenges POI presents. Our team provides compassionate, personalised care to help you navigate this journey and support your well-being.
The symptoms of POI are similar to those of menopause but occur in women under 40. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to seek advice:
Recognising these symptoms early can help in managing your condition and addressing long-term health risks.
POI can be caused by several factors, though in many cases, the exact cause remains unknown:
Diagnosing POI requires a thorough evaluation to understand the cause and confirm the condition. At Marble Arch Health, we offer:
We’ll guide you through every step of the diagnostic process with care and clarity, ensuring you feel informed and supported.
While there is no cure for POI, treatments are available to manage symptoms, protect long-term health, and support fertility if desired. Your personalised treatment plan may include:
Every woman’s journey is unique, and we’re here to provide care that aligns with your needs and goals.
For women with POI, fertility can feel like an uphill battle. While spontaneous pregnancy is rare, occasional ovulation may still occur. For those seeking to conceive, we offer tailored treatments, including:
Our fertility specialists are here to guide you through your options with compassion and expertise, ensuring you feel supported at every step.
Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse POI, as the ovaries have permanently reduced their ability to produce eggs and hormones. However, this does not mean there is no hope for managing symptoms or improving your quality of life. With the right combination of treatments—such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to balance hormone levels, lifestyle modifications, and emotional support—you can live a healthy and fulfilling life. If fertility is a concern, options like egg donation or assisted reproductive technologies can still make parenthood possible for many women. The key is finding a care team who listens to your needs and works with you to develop a personalised plan.
Yes, spontaneous pregnancy is rare but not impossible with POI. Women with this condition may still ovulate occasionally, which means there is a small chance of conceiving naturally. For many women, however, conception requires medical assistance, such as fertility treatments or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) using donor eggs. Our team at Marble Arch Health understands how emotionally complex fertility challenges can be, and we are here to explore every avenue with you, offering support and expertise to guide you through this journey.
Yes, POI can increase your risk of several long-term health concerns, primarily due to the reduced levels of oestrogen your body produces. These include:
Our priority is not only to address these risks but to equip you with the tools and resources needed to protect your overall well-being for the long term.
The emotional toll of POI is profound, and it’s completely natural to feel grief, frustration, or sadness about the unexpected changes to your body and life plans. These feelings are valid, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. At Marble Arch Health, we offer:
Remember, emotional healing takes time, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
While POI makes natural conception challenging, there are several options available to help you grow your family:
Our specialists provide personalised guidance to help you explore these options, offering clarity and compassion every step of the way.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often recommended for women with POI to address symptoms caused by low oestrogen levels and to protect long-term health. HRT can:
Starting HRT can feel like a big decision, and it’s natural to have concerns about safety or side effects. Our team will work closely with you to weigh the benefits and risks, ensuring that the treatment is tailored to your specific needs and health profile. It’s about restoring balance in a way that feels right for you.
We believe in empowering you with knowledge, providing expert care, and walking alongside you as you navigate the challenges of POI. Whether it’s managing symptoms, exploring fertility options, or addressing emotional well-being, we’re here to help you take control of your health and future.