Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Flashcards
What is premature ovarian insufficiency?
The onset of menopausal symptoms and elevated gonadotrophin levels before the age of 40 years
Before what age does premature ovarian insufficiency occur?
Before the age of 40
What is the main cause of premature ovarian insufficiency?
Idiopathic
What are the other possible causes of prmature ovarian insufficiency?
Hysterectomy
radiotherapy
chemotherapy
What are the main symptoms of premature ovarian insufficiency?
climacteric symptoms: hot flushes, night sweats
infertility
secondary amenorrhoea
What biochemical changes can occur in premature ovarian insufficiency?
raised FSH, LH levels
low oestradiol
What is the management of premature ovarian insufficiency?
HRT or COCP until about the average age of menopause
How can raised FSH be demonstrated?
elevated FSH levels should be demonstrated on 2 blood samples taken 4–6 weeks apart
What are the vasomotor symptoms of premature ovarian insufficiency?
Hot flushes
Night sweats
What sexual dysfunction can occur in premature ovarian insufficiency?
Vaginal dryness
Reduced libido
Problems with orgasm
Dyspareunia
what psychological symptoms can present with premature ovarian insufficiency?
Depression
Anxiety
Mood swings
Lethargy
Reduced concentration
What will be low in someone with premature ovarian insufficiency?
oestradiol
