What is a premature menopause?

Ethiop Med J. 2005 Jan;43(4):291-5

Premature ovarian failure in the early age 20s: 3 case reports.

Authors:

Berhan Y , Lakew Z .

Debub University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Awassa, Ethiopi

A.yifrub@yahoo.com

Premature ovarian failure in the early age 20s is a very rare phenomenon. In a woman presenting with amenorrhea and symptoms of hypoestrogenism, the confirmatory diagnosis of premature ovarian failure relies upon the finding of postmenopausal level of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH > 40 mIU/ml). Three women at the age of 25, 30 and 32 years presented with 5, 6 and 10 years secondary amenorrhea, respectively. They used to have regular menses, and two of them gave birth to a healthy baby (ies). Although the etiology remains enigmatic, their gonadotropin and estradiol serum values were found to be in the postmenopausal range. Serum FSH values in the three cases were 135.4, 41.9 and 86.5 mlU/ml. Both combined oral contraceptive pills and progesterone challenge test were administered but couldn't bring about recommencement of menstrual flow. These three women who were diagnosed as a case of premature ovarian failure, evidenced by long standing secondary amenorrhea, secondary infertility, signs and symptoms of postmenopause and biochemical evidences of hypergonadotropic hypoestrogenism, were put on continuous combined oral contraceptive pills and felt better. Literature on the potential serious complications of premature menopause and treatment options in low setting areas is revised.

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