When to worry about periods stopped with premature ovarian insufficiency

Premature ovarian insufficiency means ovarian function becomes reduced before the usual age of menopause. Periods may stop, become irregular, or return unpredictably, and symptoms linked with lower oestrogen may appear. Pregnancy can still occasionally occur, so absent bleeding is not a reason to assume conception is impossible. Other causes of missed periods may overlap and should be considered.

Book an appointment with a clinician or gynaecology service if your periods have changed or stopped. Bring a menstrual record, pregnancy possibility, family history, medicines, and details of hot flushes or genital discomfort. Assessment may include pregnancy testing, hormone checks, and discussion of bone, heart, sexual, and fertility care. Ask before stopping prescribed hormone treatment.

Seek urgent care for sudden severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, or heavy bleeding. If pregnancy is possible, pain with dizziness or bleeding needs prompt assessment. Arrange an earlier review for persistent headaches, vision changes, unusual nipple discharge, or symptoms that make daily activities difficult.

Ask how POI is being confirmed, whether pregnancy remains possible, which hormone plan fits your health, and how bone and cardiovascular health will be monitored. Discuss vaginal symptoms, contraception, fertility options, and who to contact if bleeding or pain changes.