Description
Ovarian failure before the age of 40 occurs in 1% of women. The causes of primary ovarian failure can be divided into genetic and environmental groups although in most women the cause is unknown. The understanding of genetic events that programme the life span of the ovary is only just beginning. Ovarian failure is usually complete at the time of diagnosis although the spontaneous return of fertility is always a rare possibility particularly in those with an autoimmune background. For women with POF, the treatment options for HRT and assisted fertility must be assessed on an individual basis and reviewed regularly as new techniques emerge.
