Abstract
Women with early menopause or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) experience a menopausal
state a decade or more earlier than their peers. The health consequences for POI are
vast and varied with detrimental effects seen on neurological, psychological, bone,
and cardiovascular systems. The risk profile of POI patients requires special attention,
as they differ from a typical menopausal population. This review will explore the
health risks associated with POI and examine the various treatment options and also
the risks associated with hormone therapy. Given the risks and benefits, POI patients
should be strongly encouraged to start hormone therapy until the median age of menopause.
Keywords
premature menopause - early menopause - primary ovarian insufficiency - hormone therapy
