Premature ovarian insufficiency

Natural menopause typically occurs between the ages of 46–55 years. Premature ovarian insufficiency or premature menopause results from compromised ovarian follicular activity, occurring spontaneously or because of medical interventions, prior to the age of 40 years. The premature loss of estrogen leads to bothersome menopause symptoms and predisposes the women to multiple long-term health risks including a higher mortality risk. Hormone replacement therapy used until the natural age of menopause can help manage the symptoms effectively, and can mitigate the long-term risk of estrogen deprivation. However, hormone replacement therapy is underutilized in this population due to the inappropriate extrapolation of potential risks observed with hormone therapy use in women after natural menopause. There is a large unmet need for educating patients and providers regarding the impact of premature ovarian insufficiency and its appropriate management.