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Ovarian hypofunction

Definition

Ovarian hypofunction is reduced function of the ovaries (including decreased production of hormones).

Alternative Names

Premature ovarian failure

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Ovarian hypofunction may be caused by genetic factors such as chromosome abnormalities, or it may occur with certain autoimmune disorders that disrupt normal ovarian function.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also cause ovarian hypofunction.

Symptoms

Women with ovarian hypofunction may develop symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Ovarian hypofunction may also cause difficulty becoming pregnant.

Signs and tests

Follicle-stimulating hormone, or FSH, is higher than normal in women with ovarian hypofunction.

Women with ovarian hypofunction who want to become pregnant may be particularly concerned about their ability to conceive. Those younger than age 30 may undergo a chromosome analysis to check for problems. Older women approaching menopause do not usually need this test.

Treatment

Estrogen therapy is often successful in both treating the menopausal symptoms caused by ovarian hypofunction and preventing bone loss, but it will not increase a woman's chances of becoming pregnant. Less than 10% of women with ovarian hypofunction will be able to get pregnant.  The chance of successfully getting pregnancy increases to 50% when using a fertilized donor egg (an egg from another woman).

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you are no longer having monthly periods, have symptoms of early menopause, or if you are having difficulty becoming pregnant.

Review Date:5/15/2006
Reviewed By:Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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