When we think about menopause, most of us picture it happening around our late 40s or early 50s. But for some women, menopause-like symptoms can begin decades earlier due to a condition called Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI).
POI occurs when the ovaries stop working as they should before the age of 40. This means they produce lower levels of oestrogen and release eggs less frequently, or sometimes not at all. While it can affect fertility, it’s important to remember that POI is about much more than the ability to have children. It is a long-term health condition that deserves understanding, timely diagnosis and compassionate support.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of POI are very similar to those experienced during menopause and can include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Brain fog and memory changes
- Anxiety or low mood
- Vaginal dryness
- Reduced libido
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
Because many women experiencing these symptoms are in their 20s or 30s, they may not immediately think menopause could be the cause. Unfortunately, this can lead to months or even years before receiving the correct diagnosis.
What causes POI?
In many cases, the exact cause isn’t known. However, POI can sometimes be linked to:
- Genetic conditions
- Autoimmune diseases
- Certain medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Surgery involving the ovaries
Importantly, nothing a woman has done causes POI, and for many, there is no obvious explanation.
Why treatment matters
Oestrogen plays an essential role throughout the body—not just in reproductive health. Women with POI are usually advised to replace the hormones their body is no longer producing until around the natural age of menopause (around 51), unless there is a medical reason not to.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help:
- Relieve symptoms
- Protect bone strength
- Reduce the risk of osteoporosis
- Support heart health
- Improve overall wellbeing
Every woman’s treatment should be individualised, taking into account her symptoms, health history and personal preferences.
The emotional impact
Receiving a diagnosis of POI can be incredibly difficult. Alongside physical symptoms, many women experience grief, uncertainty, anxiety or feelings of isolation—particularly if the diagnosis affects plans for having children.
Support from healthcare professionals, family, friends and peer support groups can make an enormous difference. Simply knowing you’re not alone can be one of the most powerful parts of the journey.
You’re Not Alone
At Menopaus’ull, we believe no woman should have to navigate hormonal changes in isolation—whatever her age. Raising awareness of POI helps challenge misconceptions, encourages earlier diagnosis, and reminds women that support is available.
If you’re under 40 and experiencing persistent changes to your periods alongside menopausal symptoms, don’t dismiss them as “just stress.” Trust your instincts, speak to your GP, and ask whether POI should be considered.
Knowledge empowers us, conversations connect us, and together we can ensure that every woman’s experience is seen, heard and supported.
