Premature ovarian failure

Premature ovarian failure describes different degrees in the gradual decline of the ovarian reserve and activity. The term "premature menopause" or similar descriptions do not describe the clinical problems and consequences sufficiently and should be avoided. A detailed history should be obtained (ovarian surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, family history of early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency). Furthermore, genetic causes should be clarified (chromosome analysis). Autoimmune diseases must be excluded, since they can be other parts of a polyendocrine syndrome. The therapy with and without family planning is discussed. Hormone therapy has a completely different risk-benefit ratio as compared to peri- or postmenopausal situations. The principles for patient care in this special situation are summarized, since the diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency can have a severe impact on the psychological as well as somatic health of the patient. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.