Peri menopause/premature ovarian failure

[Oldhag5]

Im 38 and been having irregular periods for a couple of years now. Have had an ultrasound and two blood tests and went back to the doctor today who said I have premature ovarian failure and am peri menopausal and prescribed me the pill (microgynon). I didn’t really ask any questions as I was a bit overwhelmed and felt quite tearful but I’ve now been googling like mad I don’t understand the difference between the peri menopause and POF. Can anyone explain please?
And any advice on whether going on the pill long term is ok? She said to reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems and osteoporosis but also to do weight bearing exercises and have plenty of vitamin D in my diet but not take a supplement. Should I be?

When the menopause occurs before the age of 40 years, it is considered premature and is known as premature ovarian failure (POF). It is a medical condition and need hormone replacement treatment until around age 50, the average age of natural menopause.
I started hrt 2 years ago, at 41 and my diagnosis was a real shock for me too! It gets better with time!

Thanks for replying. Do you mind me asking why you went for hrt rather than the contraceptive pill. I think I’m confused because I’m still getting irregular periods so that means I’m peri menopausal but it’s called POF because of my age is that right?

Right! My gyn suggested hrt instead of the pill cause it considered safer for longterm use. Hrt contain hormones that are bioidentical, like our body produce. The pill contain synthetic hormones that are more potent and function in a different way.

That’s interesting thank you. I think I will go back and discuss further with the gp it all seemed a bit quick in a 10 minute appointment!

Read up on the Daisy Network website- for women with POI.