A new study suggests that menopause symptoms are worse for people with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) compared to those experiencing natural menopause
Hot flashes, insomnia, and vaginal dryness are commonly reported symptoms experienced during the menopause transition, however, a new study suggests that such symptoms are worse for those who have premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).
POI leads to menopause before the age of 40 and is associated with increased risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, mood disorders, cognitive impairment, and sexual dysfunction. It can also lead to a shorter life expectancy.
In this new study, published in Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), researchers investigated menopause symptoms in 300 Chinese women with POI and compared them with women who experienced natural menopause.
They found that women with POI suffered a high prevalence of menopause symptoms, including mood swings, hot flashes, insomnia, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction.
Researchers have suggested that healthcare providers be more mindful of the higher risks in people with POI and work with them to identify treatment options.
Dr. Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director, says: “This study of Chinese women showed that those with POI had more prevalent menopause-related symptoms than women with menopause at the average age. It is important to note that regardless of the prevalence or severity of symptoms, women with POI should receive hormone therapy at least until the average age of menopause unless there are contraindications to its use in order to mitigate potential long-term adverse health effects, including fractures, heart disease, cognitive impairment, and early mortality–in addition to mood disturbances and sexual dysfunction.”
Study results have been published in Menopause.
