Premature ovarian failure

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is the loss of function of the ovaries before age 40. A commonly cited triad for the diagnosis is amenorrhea, hypergonadotropism, and hypoestrogenism. If it has a genetic cause, it may be called gonadal dysgenesis. Premature ovarian failure (POF) is the loss of function of the ovaries before age 40. A commonly cited triad for the diagnosis is amenorrhea, hypergonadotropism, and hypoestrogenism. If it has a genetic cause, it may be called gonadal dysgenesis. The term 'primary ovarian insufficiency' was first used in 1942 by Fuller Albright who first described the condition. About 5 to 10% of women with primary ovarian insufficiency conceive subsequent to the diagnosis without medical intervention. On average, the ovaries supply a woman with eggs until age 51, the average age of natural menopause.