Premature Ovarian Failure (POF), Page 3

I spoke with Corp about the origins of POF, and possibilities for conception by women who are affected:

"There are several different causes. Unfortunately for most women, a cause for their POF is never identified. About 25-35% of women with POF have an associated autoimmune disorder. After autoimmunity, the most frequently-known cause is genetics; a family history of POF is found in about 4% of the women. There are other reasons, such as an end result of treatment for cancers with radition or chemotherapy, or hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries."

She listed some of the more common causes:

Autoimmune association, i.e. polyglandular failure I and II, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis
Turner syndrome
galactosemia
chemotherapy
surgery

(For more information on possible POF causes, see POF Support's website.)

Regarding the conception possibilities, using donor eggs is a good option for women with POF and Corp adds, "generally they do better than average with this because they have a healthy uterus; as an aside, a recent study did state that sisters of women with POF do not make the best donors for them."

Women experiencing POF most often feel incredibly alone and uncomfortably different until they find an opportunity to talk with others. POF Support provides them with a forum for learning and sharing. In addition, research is ongoing and available to POF patients; in fact, a January 1998 study indicated that these patients are at much higher risk for bone loss, an important point to consider for younger women who may otherwise relate osteoporosis to older age. If you think that you may be affected by POF, being proactive and learning more may not only lead you to more fertile and healthful paths, but to support and understanding.