Is there a cure for premature ovarian failure?
Since puberty, my menstrual cycle has been normal but with heavy flow (about 10 days) and abnormal menstrual pain.
I started having Pap smears six years ago, and the first one showed abnormalities, which were treated with cryotherapy, after which the menstrual pain ceased and the flow became moderate (about five days).
After that, everything was normal for about a year.
Five years ago, I developed acne all over my face and enlarged pores, suspected to be due to hormonal imbalances.
Three years ago, my menstrual cycle became irregular, shortening to three days (bright red color).
I sought medical advice, and the doctor prescribed oral contraceptives for four months, during which my cycle was normal.
However, due to a busy work schedule and high stress, I stopped seeing the doctor, and since then, my cycles have been every 40 to 90 days.
(During the periods when I was supposed to menstruate but didn't, I experienced ovarian contractions and pain.) Currently, I want to conceive, so I resumed consultations.
The doctor has continued prescribing oral contraceptives, and I have been taking them for seven months, during which my cycle was normal, and I had a period in the eighth month.
However, since then, I have not had a period (from July 4, 2023, to now), and I still occasionally experience ovarian contraction pain.
I am tired of taking contraceptives.
Recently, I had a blood test, and the doctor informed me that I have premature ovarian failure, which feels like a death sentence for a woman without children.
My lab results were: PRL: 6.93, FSH: 88.2, LH: 76.6, Estradiol: 31.8, Testosterone: 17.
(For additional context, I have had sexual experience for over 10 years without contraception and have never been pregnant.)
Dr.
Wang, I have the following questions:
1.
Does emotional state affect blood test interpretation? Can I have my blood drawn again?
2.
If my ovaries are indeed nonfunctional, is the only option to implant someone else's eggs to achieve pregnancy?
3.
Is there any reference material regarding egg implantation and its associated costs?
Thank you, Dr.
Wang, for your patience in reading and responding.
Wishing you health and happiness.
april, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/05
Dr. Wang Jionglang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, in response to your questions:
1.
Emotions can affect the menstrual cycle, and whether they influence blood test results is relative; it can be confirmed with a blood test.
2.
If ovarian function has declined, you may need donor eggs if you wish to conceive.
3.
The entire process of embryo implantation for infertility treatment costs approximately NT$100,000.
For more information about the complete infertility treatment process, please consult a physician at the hospital outpatient clinic.
Keelung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan
Wang Jiong-Lang
Reply Date: 2004/11/05
More Info
Early ovarian failure (EOF), also known as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a condition where the ovaries cease to function normally before the age of 40. This can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and symptoms associated with menopause. Your situation, as described, indicates a complex history of menstrual irregularities, hormonal imbalances, and a recent diagnosis of early menopause.
To address your questions:
1. Can emotional factors affect blood test results? While emotional stress can influence menstrual cycles and overall hormonal balance, it typically does not directly affect the results of blood tests. However, stress can lead to fluctuations in hormone levels, which might warrant a repeat test to confirm the initial findings. If you feel that your emotional state has changed significantly since your last test, it could be beneficial to discuss this with your healthcare provider and consider retesting.
2. Is it possible to conceive with ovarian failure? Unfortunately, if the ovaries have indeed ceased functioning, natural conception is highly unlikely. In cases of early ovarian failure, the ovaries may not produce viable eggs, which is essential for conception. However, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) using donor eggs may offer a viable path to pregnancy. This process involves retrieving eggs from a donor, fertilizing them with sperm, and then implanting the resulting embryos into your uterus.
3. What are the options and costs associated with egg donation? Egg donation is a well-established method for women with ovarian failure who wish to conceive. The process typically involves several steps: finding a suitable egg donor, undergoing IVF procedures, and then transferring the embryos. The costs can vary widely depending on the clinic, the donor's compensation, and additional treatments required. On average, the entire process can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the specifics of the treatment plan and any additional services needed.
In terms of your overall health and fertility options, it is crucial to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about your diagnosis, treatment options, and emotional well-being. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.
Additionally, consider exploring support groups or counseling services, as navigating the emotional aspects of infertility and early ovarian failure can be challenging. Understanding your condition, exploring all available options, and having a supportive network can significantly impact your journey toward motherhood.
In conclusion, while early ovarian failure presents significant challenges to natural conception, options such as egg donation and IVF can provide hope for women wishing to become mothers. It is essential to stay informed and work closely with your healthcare team to find the best path forward for your individual circumstances.
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