Conditions
Primary ovarian insufficiency means the ovaries stop working normally before 40, causing irregular or absent periods, low oestrogen and raised FSH. Causes include genetic conditions such as fragile X premutation or Turner syndrome, autoimmune disease and cancer treatment, though many cases have no identified cause. Occasional ovulation can still occur, and hormone replacement is usually recommended for bone and heart health.
Also known as: POI, premature ovarian failure, early menopause
Related Australia guides
Sources
- Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ranzcog.edu.au)
- Healthdirect Australia (healthdirect.gov.au)
Last reviewed: 10 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.