Menopause Health Center

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Treatment for premature ovarian failure will help you manage your symptoms. But there is currently no treatment that will make the ovaries start to work properly again. Your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy or other medicines to help with hot flashes. Hormone replacement therapy can also help prevent early bone loss in women who have premature ovarian failure. Talk to your doctors about which treatments may be right for you.

Some women with premature ovarian failure may choose to try to become pregnant using donor eggs and in vitro fertilization. For more on this treatment, see the topic Fertility Problems.

Finding out you have premature ovarian failure can be extremely upsetting, especially for a woman who hopes to become pregnant. You may want to get support through counseling. You also can find information and support through the Premature Ovarian Failure Support Group, available online at www.pofsupport.org.

Can premature ovarian failure be prevented?

At this time, there is no way to prevent premature ovarian failure. But you can take steps to protect your overall health. Women with premature ovarian failure have a higher risk of bone thinning and fractures (osteoporosis), diabetes, and heart disease. A balanced and low-fat diet, regular exercise, and not smoking can help protect your bones and heart. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D may help slow bone loss. Talk to your doctor about other steps you can take.