Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
Premature ovarian insufficiency is when ovarian function declines earlier than expected, before the age of 40. It can cause symptoms similar to menopause, but it often needs a slightly different conversation because it is happening much earlier in life.
Perimenopause
The transition before menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms may begin.
Menopause
The point reached once you have gone 12 months without a period.
Postmenopause
The years after menopause, when symptoms and longer-term health changes may continue.
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
When ovarian function declines before the age of 40.
Induced Menopause
Menopause caused by surgery or medical treatment affecting the ovaries.
POI is menopause-like hormone change happening much earlier
When ovarian function declines before the age of 40, it is often called premature ovarian insufficiency or POI. It used to be described with older terms such as premature ovarian failure or premature menopause, but those terms are less helpful because ovarian function can sometimes fluctuate rather than stopping in a simple, complete way.
POI can be physically and emotionally difficult because it happens years, and sometimes decades, earlier than expected. It can affect symptoms, fertility plans, confidence and long-term health.
Periods may not fully stop straight away
Like perimenopause, POI can involve fluctuation. Periods may become irregular rather than stopping in a neat, predictable way.
It can take time to recognise
Some women have obvious symptoms. Others are only diagnosed after fertility concerns or after periods have been absent for some time.
At a glance
- POI refers to ovarian insufficiency before age 40.
- Between 40 and 45 is often described as early menopause.
- Symptoms may overlap with menopause and perimenopause.
- Because it happens earlier, long-term planning and support are especially important.
Possible symptoms or signs of POI
POI can affect women differently. Some women notice obvious symptoms, while others mainly notice missed periods, fertility difficulties or just not feeling like themselves.
Wondering if this could be affecting you?
If you are noticing symptoms and are not sure whether they may be related to perimenopause or menopause, our tools can help you take the next step.
Related stages and topics
Understanding the wider menopause transition can help make symptoms and timing easier to make sense of.
Not sure where you are in the menopause transition?
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