Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

It can be difficult to determine the exact cause of POI; however, it can be caused by:

• Chromosomal defects: Mosaic Turner syndrome is an example of a genetic disorder associated with POI.
• Certain toxins, especially those involved in chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can damage cellular genetic material. The toxins in cigarette smoke, certain chemicals, pesticides, and viruses may also lead to ovarian failure.
• Autoimmune disease can cause an immune system response to ovarian tissue, resulting in the body’s defense mechanism attacking the tissue, harming the egg-containing follicles, and damaging the egg.

The risk for developing POI increases with age when you are 35 or older. If there is a family history of POI, the risk is also increased; ovarian surgery can elevate the risk for POI.
Infertility is one of the complications of POI. In rare instances, a woman may still be able to get pregnant until her eggs are depleted. When POI is the cause of infertility, a woman may be able to use donor eggs in order to become pregnant.

Neway Fertility provides options, including resources for women experiencing POI. If you have fertility problems, contact our office and schedule an appointment for a consultation.