Young women and the risk of infertility due to premature ovarian failure

Premature ovarian failure causes hormonal imbalance in women, affecting fertility and psychology. Early detection helps maintain health and preserve the opportunity to become a mother.

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is an endocrine disorder in which the ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40. This condition causes the female body to reduce the production of the female sex hormone estrogen, disrupting menstruation, affecting fertility and causing many physical and psychological consequences. Although not common, POI is on the rise in young women, even those who have never given birth.

When the 'biological clock' stops early

In normal people, the ovaries maintain the function of ovulation and female hormone production until menopause, usually after age 50. However, in women with POI, this process stops decades earlier. Many women in their early 30s experience menstrual disorders, amenorrhea, hot flashes, vaginal dryness or decreased libido without understanding the cause.

Endocrinologists and reproductive specialists say that there are many factors that increase the risk of premature ovarian failure, such as genetic abnormalities (Turner syndrome, gene mutations related to the X chromosome), autoimmune disorders, complications after chemotherapy or radiotherapy, environmental poisoning, or prolonged stress. However, in about 60% of cases, the exact cause remains unknown.

Young women with menstrual disorders should have their ovarian function checked early.

Premature ovarian failure and risk of infertility

One of the most serious consequences of premature ovarian failure is reduced fertility. When the ovaries stop releasing eggs, it becomes very difficult to conceive naturally. A small number of women may still ovulate randomly, but the rate of natural pregnancy is less than 5%.

With current medicine, the main treatment for women with POI who want to have children is in vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs. This option has the highest success rate, helping many women still have the opportunity to become mothers. In addition, for those at high risk of ovarian failure due to cancer treatment, doctors may recommend preserving fertility before treatment, by freezing eggs or ovarian tissue.

Early detection of POI is important. If diagnosed early, patients can proactively plan their fertility, consider egg conservation or seek assisted childbirth options before ovarian function is completely lost.

Long-term effects on physical health

POI not only affects fertility but also causes a series of hormonal changes similar to menopause. Decreased estrogen levels lead to hot flashes, insomnia, vaginal dryness, decreased libido and mood swings.

Estrogen also plays an important role in protecting the cardiovascular system, bones and brain. Therefore, women with POI are at risk of osteoporosis, high blood cholesterol, cardiovascular disorders and memory loss earlier than normal. Experts recommend that women with POI should be treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) until natural menopause to supplement estrogen, reduce symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

In addition, a healthy diet, calcium and vitamin D supplements, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight also help improve overall health.

Psychological impact - the pain that is rarely spoken of

Many women feel shocked, confused or self-conscious when they learn they have premature ovarian failure. Feeling "old before their time", worrying about losing the ability to be a mother, or fearing the impact on their marriage can cause them to fall into depression, anxiety, and prolonged insomnia.

Some studies show that the rate of depression and anxiety disorders in women with POI is many times higher than in normal people. Psychologists say that, in addition to endocrine treatment, mental support for patients is an indispensable factor. Psychological counseling, joining a support group, or sharing with relatives helps reduce feelings of loneliness and psychological crisis.

Importantly, POI is not the end of a woman’s life. With the advancement of medicine, many treatment options and reproductive support still open the door of hope for patients. Above all, being listened to, understood and accompanied by doctors, family and community helps women overcome this difficult period.

Doctors advise on hormone therapy and fertility preservation for POI patients.

Early detection is key to health protection

Doctors recommend that women under 40 years old who have signs of prolonged menstrual disorders, decreased libido, vaginal dryness or frequent hot flashes should see a gynecologist or endocrinologist. Blood tests to check the hormones FSH, LH and estradiol are indicators that help identify early ovarian dysfunction.

If diagnosed early, the patient can:

• Get timely reproductive advice.
• Start appropriate hormone replacement therapy.
• Monitor bone, cardiovascular, thyroid and related autoimmune diseases.
• Get early psychological support to avoid prolonged depression.

Journey to healthy living with premature ovarian failure

Although irreversible, premature ovarian failure can be effectively managed with multidisciplinary coordination between obstetricians, gynecologists, endocrinologists, nutritionists and psychologists. Comprehensive treatment not only helps relieve symptoms but also helps women regain confidence, quality of life and hope of motherhood with modern methods.

Patients also need to proactively change their lifestyle: avoid smoking, limit alcohol, maintain physical activity, get enough sleep and have regular health check-ups. More importantly, see premature ovarian failure not as a failure but as a challenge that can be overcome — with knowledge, spirit and the right companionship.

Premature ovarian failure syndrome is a complex disorder that affects both the physical and psychological aspects of life. However, if detected early, treated properly and receiving comprehensive support, women can live healthy, happy lives and still have the opportunity to become mothers. Understanding POI is the first step to help each person be more proactive in taking care of their reproductive health and protecting their own future.

Source: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/phu-nu-tre-va-nguy-co-vo-sinh-vi-suy-buong-trung-som-169251028132735676.htm