Where to Find a Clinician Who Understands Primary Ovarian Insufficiency
Women with Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) deserve care that sees the whole person – not just her hormones or fertility.
The best place to begin is usually with a gynecologist, then expand to a coordinated team that understands the ovarian–endocrine ecosystem—the intricate web that connects the ovaries, hormones, and every organ system they touch.
Start with a Gynecologist
A trusted OB-GYN is often the best first step.
Ask if they are familiar with the ACOG Committee Opinion No. 605 – Primary Ovarian Insufficiency in Adolescents and Young Women.
A good gynecologist will:
- Take your symptoms seriously.
- Order appropriate testing.
- Recognize that Primary Ovarian Insufficiency is not early menopause.
- Refer you to an endocrinologist when needed.
Start here: International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO)
Add an Endocrinologist If Needed
Primary Ovarian Insufficiency is both a reproductive and endocrine condition.
If your case is complex or hormonal balance remains a challenge, an endocrinologist can provide specialized insight.
Start here: International Society of Endocrinology (ISE)
Ask directly: “Do you follow the Endocrine Society Guidelines on Primary Ovarian Insufficiency?”
Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline
If Fertility Is a Concern
Consult a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) specialist.
Many focus mainly on IVF, so choose carefully.
Ask: “Do you also care for women who are not currently trying to get pregnant?”
“Do you understand Primary Ovarian Insufficiency as a lifelong condition, not only a fertility challenge?”
Start here: International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS)
Build a Whole-Person Team
Primary Ovarian Insufficiency affects the heart, bone, brain, and emotional health.
Women benefit from having a coordinated team that sees beyond the lab results – one that connects the dots and restores confidence in care.
Advanced Practice Nurses – Coordination and Care for the Whole Person
International Council of Nurses (ICN)
The NP/APN Network connects Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists worldwide, including experts in women’s health, endocrinology, and chronic reproductive conditions.
Why it matters
Advanced Practice Nurses often provide continuity of care and patient education – they walk with you, not just treat you.
Contact:
icn@icn.ch
+41 22 908 01 00
Primary Care Clinicians – Lifelong Continuity and Coordination
World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) – Global federation of 150 national organizations representing over 500,000 family physicians.
WONCA physicians deliver comprehensive, person-centered care, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks — heart, bone, cognition, emotional health, and community connection.
Counselors and Psychologists – Supporting Mind and Spirit
International Association for Counseling (IAC) — Global network of professional counselors in over 80 countries, advancing ethical, cross-cultural care that respects faith, culture, and science.
These professionals help women navigate loss, identity, and renewal with compassion and insight.
The Bottom Line
- Start with a gynecologist who listens and builds a bridge, not a wall.
- Add a primary care physician or nurse practitioner who coordinates your care.
- Then, if needed, include an endocrinologist for specific hormonal issues.
- Round out your team with a counselor who understands reproductive loss and recovery.
That’s how a Global Ecosystem of Care grows – person by person, team by team.
It’s the path of Service · Truth · Heritage.
Take care and be well,
Dr. Lawrence M. Nelson, MD, MBA
Director, My 28 Days® Initiative
President, Mary Elizabeth Conover Foundation, Inc.
