Today, I want to address a topic that is not only crucial but also directly relevant to many of you: Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, or POI. Whether you’re familiar with this condition or not, you must be prepared to discuss it with your care provider.
POI Symptoms
Firstly, let’s shed some light on the symptoms of POI. Two common symptoms are amenorrhea (the absence of regular menstrual periods) and hot flashes. These are usually related to the hormonal imbalance caused by 17-beta estradiol deficiency. If you’ve been experiencing these symptoms, bringing them up during your clinician’s visit is essential.
So, how can you best prepare for this visit? Start by jotting down your symptoms and any questions you may have. It can be helpful to keep a diary of your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity. Additionally, do some research on POI and gather information to share with your doctor.
Discussions With Your Healthcare Provider
Ask your clinician about their experience with POI, as it’s a rare disorder that not all healthcare providers manage regularly. Be patient and prepared to explain your symptoms in detail. Consider also inquiring about seeing a specialist with more experience with POI.
Lastly, remember to be your own advocate. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification. Your care provider is there to help you, so it’s crucial to establish open communication.
By being prepared and proactive, you’ll be better equipped to discuss primary ovarian insufficiency with your doctor. Your health matters, so let’s ensure you get the care and support you deserve.
The Mary Elizabeth Conover Foundation supports an online resource to help women with Primary Ovarian Insufficiency prepare to visit their clinicians. They support a closed Facebook group named “A Community Resource for Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI).” The site provides education and advocacy based on the best evidence and comes with no fee or strings attached. Please consider joining our community of over 4,000 members.
Stay informed, stay empowered!
Take care and be well,
Dr. Lawrence M. Nelson, MD, MBA
Director, My 28 Days® Initiative
President, Mary Elizabeth Conover Foundation, Inc.
