Early Menopause Is On the Rise

National Infertility Awareness Week

According to a recent review published this week in The Obstetrician & Gynecologist,early menopause or premature ovarian failure (POF) is on the rise. POF is the loss of ovary function in women under the age of 40 and affects 1 in 100 women.  POF is usually permanent, however documentation of 5-10% of women who have been diagnosed were able to resume normal ovarian activity and conceive.  The primary symptoms of POF are loss of libido, estrogen deficiency and irregular menstrual cycles.

The exact cause of POF is unknown, however researchers believe environment, weight, lifestyle choices and family history may be contributing factors. There’s also been shown an increased rate of POF directly correlated with cancer survivors. Approximately 8% of survivors experience POF, and that increases to 40% for women who receive radiation therapy.

Unfortunately, young women with POF have an increase risk of heart disease, depression and osteoporosis. Researchers recommend physical activity, a calcium-rich diet, and supplementation, like that of Vita Logic’s Vitamin D, and Osteo Protect or Osteo Protect Plus, to avoid bone loss. They also recommend avoiding alcohol and smoking.

Puneet Arora, registrar in obstetrics and gynecology at Hope Hospital, Salford, and co-author of the review said:

“Premature ovarian failure is usually permanent but ovarian activity can resume in some cases. Women who are diagnosed with the condition need support as these women are often anxious and depressed. However recent scientific advances in assisted conception provide hope to women.”