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Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

Background for ESHRE Guideline on premature ovarian insufficiency 

Guideline on premature ovarian insufficiencyThis updated guideline offers best practice recommendations for the care of women with with both primary and secondary premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). POI is a clinical condition defined by the loss of ovarian function indicated by irregular menstrual cycles together with biochemical confirmation of ovarian insufficiency before the age of 40.

Women with POI have unique needs. They may not only suffer from symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency, but can also experience other issues, with a significant impact on their quality of life and later health outcomes. POI can have significant effects on fertility, bone health, cardiovascular health, sexual function, psychological health and neurological function.

The impact of POI on these different domains and the treatment options for each along with monitoring needs where relevant are all discussed in the guideline.

In addition to hormone therapy the guideline also covers non-hormonal and complementary treatments, lifestyle interventions and puberty induction.

 pdfESHRE Guideline on premature ovarian insufficiency - full version15.76 MB

Health Professional resources

HP ToolkitGuideline on premature ovarian insufficiencyHealthcare professional toolkit

This resource is for intended healthcare professionals (HCPs) including primary care, endocrinologists and gynaecologists. It may also be helpful for other HCPs such as psychologists, nurse practitioners and physical therapists.

This resource aims to:

  • increase awareness of premature ovarian insufficiency
  • facilitate recognition and prompt diagnosis of POI
  • encourage shared decision making between those with POI and their HCP
  • provide HCPs with tools to provide evidence-based best practice care of people with POI and reduce care variation

pdfPOI GUIDELINE_HCP Toolkit PDF6.05 MB

 

Content created February 2025