Hyper­g­onadotrophic ovarian insuf­fi­ciency

In hypergonadotrophic ovarian insufficiency, the problem lies in the ovary itself.
Hormone tests show a marked rise in FSH and LH, with low oestradiol levels.
The high gonadotrophin levels are explained by the fact that the pituitary gland is trying to stimulate the ovary, which, however, does not respond.

Causes

• Congenital malformations

If the ovaries have been underdeveloped from birth, the disorder can already be noticed in puberty, because the breasts do not develop and there are no periods. In this case, a genetic analysis should be done to rule out a chromosomal defect.

• Secondary damage to the ovaries
  • Damage caused by previous chemotherapy or radiotherapy as part of treatment for a malignant disease.
  • Autoimmune diseases.
  • Infectious diseases.
  • Genetic disorders.

Premature ovarian insufficiency is the loss of ovarian function before the age of 40. It affects about 0.3–1% of women of reproductive age.

Chances of pregnancy

The chances of pregnancy when hypergonadotrophic ovarian insufficiency is present are low, but pregnancy cannot be ruled out completely, as cycles with a normal hormonal pattern can also occur. The chances of pregnancy are estimated at between 5 and 10%.

Treatment

There is no standard treatment for hypergonadotrophic ovarian insufficiency. The approaches chosen for this condition are:

• Stimulation with high doses of gonadotrophins or with clomiphene citrate alone, although success rates are low.
• Injection of growth factors from platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
• Egg donation.