3 Young Women On The Impact Of Their POI Diagnosis

The exact cause of POI is unknown in 90% of cases. Hormone specialist Dr Fiona MacRae from the Marion Gluck Clinic says: “The exact causes of POI are not fully understood but research suggests that genetic factors, autoimmune disorders and environmental factors may play a role in the development of this condition. Certain medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also contribute to the premature decline of ovarian function.” When symptoms occur at a young age, for example, Dr Shirin Lakhani says they “can be mistaken for irregular periods,” which are relatively common among young people who menstruate and so “the early signs of POI may not immediately raise concerns.”