What causes a young woman to have premature ovarian failure?
Unfortunately, in the majority of cases, the causes of POF are idiopathic or unknown. Genetic, environmental, and autoimmune etiologies have been associated with POF and are currently the subjects of ongoing research. It is estimated that up to 40% of POF can be attributed to genetic causes, as the disorder has a tendency to be familial. Known environmental causes include pelvic surgery, cancer therapy such as chemotherapy and radiation, and viral oophoritis, all which affect ovarian function and could contribute to POF. Autoimmunity has also been shown to play a role, with the most common cause thought to be Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Other secondary causes include disorders such as anorexia nervosa or chemotherapy treatments for various cancers. Is POF easily recognizable and readily diagnosed? No. Since the constellation of symptoms can vary considerably from patient to patient, the diagnosis is often delayed. A patient can be shuttled from physician to physician before a correct diag
