The difference between premature ovarian failure and premature menopauseJune 10, 2019
By Dr Terrenz H'ng, Infertility consultant, Verdure Healthcare Consultancy Ovarian failure, also known as early menopause, is a condition that affects women as early as 30 or 40 years of age. This condition can have a significant impact on a woman's physical and emotional well-being, as well as her ability to conceive. The average age for normal menopause is 50, and it is caused by a depletion of ovarian follicles. Unlike normal menopause, premature ovarian failure is a condition where half of young women experience intermittent ovarian function. These women may still produce estrogen and ovulate, even with high levels of gonadotropins. In some cases, pregnancy has been reported after a diagnosis of premature ovarian failure.
Pelvic ultrasound examinations have shown that follicles are likely to be detected in patients more than 6 years after diagnosis as in those less than 6 years after diagnosis. This suggests that the likelihood of detecting a follicle remains stable throughout the reproductive lifespan of these women. In fact, there have been reports of pregnancy in women as old as 44, 16 years after a diagnosis of premature ovarian failure. Unfortunately, there is currently no safe and effective treatment to restore fertility in patients with this condition, as proven by prospective controlled studies. In fact, some unproven therapies may even prevent spontaneous pregnancies from occurring. Causes of ovarian failure Work stress and pressure are the leading causes of ovarian failure in women today. The constant pressure to balance work and personal life often leads to neglecting one's health, resulting in poor eating habits and bad lifestyle choices. Additionally, a botched D&C procedure after a miscarriage or the removal of the uterus prior to pregnancy can also contribute to ovarian failure. Genetic factors can also play a role, as seen in cases where women have a family history of early menopause. Symptoms of ovarian failure There are numerous cases in the past 10 years where women under the age of 40 experience poor menstrual flow. This can lead to mood swings, depression, and hot flushes at night. Some women may also find it challenging to conceive, even with regular intercourse. These symptoms can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life and should not be ignored. Treatment options The good news is that ovarian failure is curable. In Western medicine, hormone therapy is prescribed, but it may take some time for the body to adjust to this treatment. In some cases, this treatment may not be effective in improving fertility problems. An alternative approach would be one that focuses on healthy eating habits, lifestyle changes, and stress relief, combined with Chinese herbs. This approach has shown promising results in improving ovarian function and increasing the chances of conception. The role of ovaries It is crucial to maintain estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. The ovaries play a crucial role in releasing these hormones, which work together to regulate the menstrual cycle and support fertility. If the estrogen levels are low, it can lead to various health issues, including diabetes, cholesterol, low libido, and bone problems. On the other hand, high levels of progesterone can cause fibroids in the uterus and breast problems. The Importance of nutrition Good nutrition is the key to improving ovarian function. Women should have a balanced diet consisting of meat, vegetables, fruits, and beans, along with drinking eight to ten cups of water daily. Regular exercise, enough sleep, and stress-relieving activities like spending time with friends or listening to music can also help boost the immune system and improve overall health. |
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