Signs of ovarian failure

The ovaries are the most important reproductive organs of women, producing both sex hormones and eggs for reproduction. Normally, a woman at puberty will have 300,000-400,000 eggs. Through the monthly menstrual cycle, the number of eggs and follicles in reserve will gradually decrease and often "hit bottom" at the age of 45-50, when women enter menopause.

Many studies in the world show that about 9-24% of cases requiring reproductive support have ovarian failure. In Vietnam, there are still no statistics, but the number of young patients coming to the clinic and being diagnosed with ovarian failure is increasing. When suffering from premature ovarian failure, some people go through menopause after 1-2 years, some are lucky to last a few years.

According to Dr. Nguyen Phuc Hoan, Hanoi Medical University Hospital, scientists have not yet determined the cause of ovarian failure in young people. Recent studies have found that it is related to family factors. In addition, patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy for cancer can also suffer from ovarian failure, or those who abuse alcohol, tobacco, or prolonged stress are also at higher risk than others.

Science has not yet found a cure or treatment for premature ovarian failure. The only way to get pregnant is to have assisted reproduction as soon as possible before the last eggs age and deteriorate.

Dr. Ho Van Thang, Hanoi Andrology and Infertility Hospital, said that premature ovarian failure often has symptoms similar to those when women enter premenopause with typical signs being:

- Menstrual disorders: Periods gradually become less frequent, irregular, or even absent.

- Decreased libido, vaginal dryness.

- Vasomotor disorders: Hot flashes, facial flushing, or night sweats.

- There are also symptoms of urinary disorders, osteoporosis, difficulty concentrating, irritability...

However, there are cases of ovarian failure that come on very slowly, without any symptoms, and the patient only discovers it when examined for infertility.

To prevent premature ovarian failure, women should:

- Visit a gynecologist or reproductive health clinic immediately when there are unusual signs or periodically every 6 months to screen, detect and treat early diseases that affect ovarian function.

- Maintain genital hygiene, use measures to prevent sexually transmitted diseases. When there are gynecological infections, it is necessary to intervene and treat thoroughly to avoid recurrence.

- Limit and avoid exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation.

- Do not abuse stimulants such as alcohol, tobacco, coffee, cocaine, addictive substances...

- Have a balanced and scientific lifestyle and work regimen, minimize stress and excessive pressure, especially avoid prolonged psychological stress.

- Exercise regularly and maintain a balanced body weight.

- Have a nutritious, balanced and varied diet. You should eat lots of green vegetables, fresh fruits… because these are foods rich in minerals and vitamins that help strengthen the body’s resistance and you should drink lots of water.

- Do not abuse hormonal drugs of unknown origin or without a doctor's prescription.

Young women of reproductive age with ovarian disease requiring surgery or preparing for cancer treatment should consult a reproductive specialist before undergoing treatment.

When you notice any of the above unusual signs, you should see a doctor for timely advice and treatment./.